Support for Filipino community vital

Our hearts go out to the people of the Philippines following the devastation of Typhoon Haiyan. The scale of the tragedy is overwhelming.

We have a significant local Filipino community who are having to deal with the effects of the tragedy in their homeland and in some cases their own loss as a result of the typhoon.  Efforts are being made locally to support them and to help them support family and friends in the Philippines.

There are a number of ways we can all help.  First and foremost is the need for relief money.  NZ Red Cross has already got an appeal underway and I know first hand from collecting for them that this tragedy has touched the hearts of New Zealanders.  The responses in the street were very generous.  You can donate at redcross.org.nz or drop into any Red Cross Service Centre, ASB, ANZ or BNZ bank.

In addition there are local fundraising events underway.  These include “Eat-to-Aid”, a fundraiser dinner and cultural Philippine presentation organised by Turo-Turo Philippine Café and Glen Innes Business Association on Saturday, 30 November at 6pm, and will be held at Mayfair Place, Glen Innes.  For details contact Gary at the Glen Innes Business Association on 09 521 7200 or Maria at Turo-Turo Café on 021 257 3667.

My experience from door-knocking for Red Cross to support the people of the Philippines is that New Zealanders are deeply saddened by the devastation communities in the Philippines have suffered and the huge loss of life.  If you haven’t already done so please help if you can.

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