Philippines residents were still reeling from tropical storm Ketsana when Typhoon Parma hit and took its toll. (Compassion photo)
Philippines (MNN) ― While residents of the Philippines were still reeling from Tropical Storm Ketsana, Typhoon Parma hit as well, bringing with it more floods and putting even more homes underwater. Almost a week later, homes are still underwater, and many do not know where to begin with relief efforts.
And the rains continue to fall.
All Compassion International church partners in Northern Luzon were affected, as well as 19 of their child development centers.
"Because of the prolonged rains of Typhoon Parma, most of the families of our registered children can't go out to look for money or food," one of their church partners said. "Most of their sources of livelihood have been destroyed, like grains and vegetables."
Another partner reports: "On the night of October 8, 2009, strong rains poured so hard here in our place causing a huge landslide on the top-most portion of the mountainside where the community is located. Mud and water [flowed] downward, hitting the unsuspecting village, burying houses below and making some houses in the upper portion collapse. Many of our registered children and their families were affected seriously; some were killed, while others were able to survive. Rescue operation is ongoing up to now."
There the death toll reached 50.
Throughout the Philippines, Parma claimed 240 lives and left $100 million worth of damage.
Compassion's ministry seeks to set children free from physical and spiritual poverty, and this is especially important during this time of uncertainty.
One way they are doing this is by providing families with emergency supplies of food and clean water for two weeks; this can be done for $30. Consider helping a family with these basic needs. Click here to help.
Also, pray for the children, families and Compassion staff affected in the area. Pray for God's mercy and comfort to be with them, especially for those who lost their families and other loved ones. Pray for the rains to stop.
