#GlendaPH: Humanitarian orgs spring to action

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#GlendaPH: Humanitarian orgs spring to action
What are the country's humanitarian organizations doing for #GlendaPH victims?
MANILA, Philippines – Typhoon Glenda (Rammasun) affected thousands of families as it tore past the country on July 15 to 16.

According to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), at least 132,000 families were displaced when their homes were damaged from Glenda’s strong winds. As of this publication, they are housed in about 458 evacuation centers in southern Luzon, the Bicol region, and Eastern Visayas. (READ: At least 338,000 displaced by #GlendaPH

In Manila alone, 1,600 residents fled their homes after a mandatory evacuation of coastal communities was ordered. (READ: #GlendaPH: Manila streets passable, 1,600 evacuated)

With the typhoon out of the country, local governments and humanitarian organizations have begun the recovery phase that follows every disaster – even as many areas devastated by typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) have yet to recover. 

1. Red Cross Philippines 

FIRST AID. PRC volunteers take care of injured evacuees. Photo from Philippine Red Cross Facebook Page

The Emergency Response Unit (ERU) of the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) deployed 250 staff and volunteers nationwide for Glenda-affected individuals. Aside from rescues, they also assisted in clearing operations as well as giving first aid to injured evacuees. 

In a press release, the PRC said that, prior to Glenda making landfall, they placed several rescue units on standby, including the Rizal Water Search and Rescue (WASAR) volunteers.

These units include trained personnel who are ready for deployment at any time. The Philippine Red Cross emphasizes the importance of volunteerism during disasters. (READ: PH Red Cross celebrates 67 years of volunteerism

“PRC is currently in full-swing providing services to the most vulnerable – providing hotmeals in evacuation centers, clearing debris and assisting in evacuation areas,” a post on its official Facebook page said

2. World Vision
SHELTER. Families in Tacloban City evacuated to the city's astrodome. Photo from World Vision Philippines Facebook Page

World Vision Philippines activated its contingency plans even before the typhoon passed Tacloban, one of the hardest hit by typhoon Yolanda in 2013. 

“Our contingency plan has been activated since yesterday (July 16) which includes preparing our emergency teams on the ground, checking warehouse stock, going through security and safety protocol.” the organization’s Haiyan Response Operations Director Jenny MacCann said.

World Vision took care of almost 1,200 families temporarily housed in the Tacloban City Astrodome, as well as in schools in New Kawayan, Anibong, and San Jose. The organization also distributed essential materials such as blankets, mats, mosquito nets, and hygiene kits to affected families.

In Bicol where the typhoon made landfall, World Vision’s staff took part in local government initiatives to ensure the safety of residents.

“World Vision response teams are on standby to support government efforts if needed, staff and assisted families have been advised to take safety precautions,” assured Humanitarian and Emergency Affairs Director Bebeth Tiu.

3. Save the Children

FOR CHILDREN. Save the Children set up child-friendly spaces in evacuation sites. Photo from Save the Children Facebook Page

Almost 180,000 children were affected by typhoon Glenda without essential services such as those needed for hygiene and nutrition, according to Save the Children (STC).

The international aid organization distributed more than 7,000 kits in several parts of Luzon, Visayas and even Metro Manila after response teams assessed the situation. They also set up child-friendly spaces in several evacuation areas. 

“We have teams in some of the affected areas in Luzon, including Northern Manila, operating in flood-prone and low lying areas,” Deputy Country Director Michel Rooijackers said. “Save the Children is well positioned to assist those severely affected by the typhoon”

The organization also got ready in case evacuees had to stay in the centers for weeks following the typhoon. According to Rooijackers, they are worried about the children and the living conditions in the evacuation centers. 

“We are mostly concerned about young children as they are most vulnerable during disasters. Children are easily swept away by winds,” he said. “These scenes are obviously distressing for children. Our teams will be out to see full extent of the damage.” 

View this slideshow for more pictures:

Do you know any organization that is working to bring relief to victims of typhoon Glenda? Tell us in the comment section below! -Rappler.com 

Get the latest update on #GlendaPH via our live blog.

Find the nearest relief center through the Project Agos Relief Map.

Visit Project Agos for the latest stories on areas affected by Typhoon Glenda.

Photos from World Vision Philippines, Save the Children, and Philippine Red Cross Facebook Pages

 

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