Rotary Club of Oak Forest Donates to Philippines Disaster Relief

In response to the earthquake and typhoon crises in the Philippines, the Rotary Club of Oak Forest has donated $1,000 to ShelterBox USA.  These funds and other donations from the community will be used for the purchase of ShelterBox tents and lifesaving equipment.

“ShelterBox has been working relentlessly in the Philippines since November 9 to provide emergency shelter and relief to communities affected by Super Typhoon Haiyan, the largest recorded storm to reach landfall,” says Mark Dyer, a ShelterBox Response Team Member.

Dyer returned November 13 from a two-week deployment as the team leader to set up tent camps for earthquake survivors on the island of Bohol that was devastated by a massive 7.2-magnitude earthquake.  Then, Super Typhoon Haiyan struck the Philippines killing thousands of people and leaving millions struggling in its aftermath.  “For people affected by the earthquake, to be hit by this super storm was just catastrophic.  There were trees down, roads washed out, flooding and debris everywhere, “ Dyer added.

Thus far, ShelterBox USA has committed aid for 4,000 families in the Philippines, with more assistance planned.  Three ShelterBox Response Teams are in Cebu City coordinating the shipment of ShelterBoxes to other areas of the Philippines affected by the largest recorded storm to reach landfall.

“Rotary  Club of Oak Forest is a strong supporter of the ShelterBox, a Rotary international disaster relief charity that provides emergency shelter and aid assistance throughout the world,” says Dr Thomas Halwax, club president.

“Hundreds of thousands of men, women, and children in the Philippines are now homeless and without clean water or food in the wake of the typhoon.  Their situation is desperate, so we are encouraging individuals and organizations to consider their financial support,” Dr Halwax stated.  “Your support will provide emergency shelter and the essential aid these families need to survive and start rebuilding their lives.”

More than 20 other clubs in Rotary International District 6450 are mounting similar fundraising campaigns to provide shelter, warmth and dignity to typhoon victims.

A ShelterBox contains a tent that can accommodate an extended family of 10.  Blankets, tools, water purification and cooking equipment and other items essential to survival are included.  Highly trained ShelterBox Response Teams distribute boxes and supervise the erection of tent cities, working closely with local organizations, international aid agencies and Rotary clubs worldwide.

The price of a complete ShelterBox is $1,000.  This includes the cost of all materials, packing, storage, transport worldwide and distribution to the needy.

For the latest updates on the Philippines or to make a tax-deductible donation, visit www.shelterboxUSA.org. Your donation will make a dramatic impact.