Typhoon Haiyan November 2013

8 November On 8 November, Typhoon Haiyan hit the Philippines. It was a “super-typhoon” – one of the strongest storms ever. 9.8 million people have had their lives torn apart. Homes, schools and roads were destroyed.

Earthquake Only a month before the typhoon there was an earthquake in the Philippines. Thousands of people were still living in tents when the typhoon struck.

Your support In the first two days after the typhoon, CAFOD supporters had already donated £36,000 to help the people of the Philippines. Thank you!

How is CAFOD helping? Overseas, we work through “partners” – local organisations in each country. Our partners know the local people and work alongside them to meet their needs. Our partners in the Philippines are Caritas Philippines and Catholic Relief Services.

How is CAFOD helping? We are helping our partners in the Philippines to provide food, shelter and household goods like blankets and cooking equipment. We are also planning to help with clean water and sanitation to prevent disease.

Our partners say... “It’s the first time the Philippines has experienced a disaster of this magnitude... this was beyond all expectations. We really need all the help we can get.” Fr. Edwin Gariguez, Caritas Philippines

Pope Francis “Sadly, there are many, many victims and the damage is huge. Let's try to provide concrete help.” Pope Francis

Let us pray... Loving God, Father of all, we pray for our sisters and brothers in the Philippines.   Through the power of your love, comfort those who need your help. Give hope to those who do not have shelter or enough food, and courage to those who need support. We remember those working hard to rebuild and offer our hearts and hands to do your work, through our actions, our prayers and our love. Amen.

Picture credits REUTERS/Romeo Ranoco, courtesy of alertnet.org REUTERS/Raul Banias, courtesy of alertnet.org REUTERS/Erik De Castro, courtesy of alertnet.org CAFOD