Hitting Home

Looking back through my previous posts and reading my About page, I realized I never mentioned where I'm from, aside from the fact that I grew up and I currently live in Florida. While I do consider Florida home, it isn't where I was born, it isn't where my family is from and it isn't my motherland. That land, that small piece of Earth, the soil that nourished my history is located half way around the world and right now, it's all over the news.

My family was born in the Philippines. I was born in the Philippines. My roots are in the Philippines and now, they need help. 

As you already know, Typhoon Haiyan devastated parts of the central Philippines, leaving thousands in need. Aside from losing their homes, many lost family members and loved ones, and while losing those near and dear is enough of a burden, they have also found themselves without clean water and food. Together, we try to do what we can from where we are and with that I'm sharing some resources below. 

• Google has set up websites to help connect loved ones and request rescue. 
• The Washington Post has shared a number of organizations accepting donations to aid the Philippines in their recovery. You may find The Washington Post's list of organizations, links to their website and phone numbers here. 
• Donations to the UN World Food Programme to aid those in dire need of food and water can be made here. Donations can also be made via text.
• US: Text AID to 27722 to donate $10
• Canada: Text RELIEF to 45678 to donate $5
• UK: Text AID to 70303 to donate £3.

I am always impressed by the human spirit in difficult situations and now I'm even more grateful as this difficult situation hits home. For your continued generosity and prayers, salamat.

Sincerely, 

Cybill