Disaster Aid UK&I, together with its international partners, is on the ground in Cagayan de Oro, the worst hit region following Cyclone Sendong in the Philippines. It has taken more than 1,500 lives, with 1,000s still missing, and left nearly 250,000 people without homes or basic belongings.
Rotarian Barry Hicks from the RC Taree (D9650) contacted Disaster Aid International CEO, Jenni Heenan requesting assistance in the Mindanao region with the supply of our Family Survival boxes. “Barry’s in-depth knowledge and his associations from many years working in this region were instrumental in Disaster Aid International signing a MoU with the Balay Mindanaw Foundation Inc. (www.balaymindanaw.org) another not-for-profit organization,” Jenni said.
“Working together, the Philippines Air Force and Army have flown 100 Family Survival boxes into Cagayan de Oro free of charge and efficiently in clearing Customs within hours of arrival,” Jenni said.
DARTs (Disaster Aid Response Team members) PP Hans Van Dyk (D9820) and Dave Tuzewski (D9500) are on the ground in Cagayan de Oro with DAI Head of Training & Development, Ed Cox. In a report just to hand, Ed Cox, having assessed the situation on the ground, says it is important to confirm that Disaster Aid International is setting up its camps in full compliance with UN standards using our Family Survival Boxes (together with lighting) to ensure survivors not only have dignity but importantly safety as they prepare to rebuild their lives.
The magnitude of this disaster is huge. we need your continued support.
