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People affected by Cyclone Washi queue for clean water in the Philippines area of Cagayan de Oro.
Plan is supporting the basic needs of thousands of people affected by Typhoon Washi (also known as Sendong) in the Mindanao Island of the Philippines.
The severe flooding and devastation caused by the tropical storm on December 16 last year left more than 1200 dead and affected close to 118,000 families. More than 80,000 families are still homeless.
Plan is responding to the life-saving needs of families in the worst affected parts of Iligan, Cagayan de Oro and Negros Oriental. The organisation is aiming to reach nearly 150,000 affected people and has started distributing relief items including 10,000 hygiene kits, 10,000 water-purification kits, 15,000 mosquito nets and 20,000 traditional blankets (Malong) among other essential supplies.
Carin van der Hor, Plan's Country Director in the Philippines, said: "The need is overwhelming. We are working with local government, UN and other organisations to reach out to the most vulnerable groups."
Children continue to remain the main focus of Plan's aid response. The organisation has distributed 290 tents in Iligan and 20 in Cagayan de Oro for use as shelters and temporary learning spaces for children. So far Plan has conducted eight sessions with 537 children and 87 adults in Cagayan de Oro to address their emotional needs.
"Children living in displaced settings and separated from families are extremely vulnerable," said Plan in Australia Programs Director Dave Husy: "Helping these children to cope with the emotional impact of the disaster will be our main priority, along with their health and protection."
Plan has been working in the Philippines since 1961 and with Australian Government and public support runs a project in partnership with UNICEF supporting children formerly associated with armed groups in parts of Mindanao. Even though Plan’s program areas in Mindanao escaped the typhoon, the organisation is responding to the overwhelming needs of thousands affected by the flood to ensure that vulnerable children are prioritised.
Plan is appealing for $US1.5 million to fund its initial response. At this point almost $US1 million has been raised, with more needed.
To support children affected by the Philippines typhoon and Plan's work with children and communities affected by disasters around the world, donate to the Children in Crisis Fund online or call 13 75 26.
To speak to Carin van der Hor or Dave Husy, contact:
David Cook
Media Officer
Plan International Australia
Mobile: 0448 816 900
Email: David.cook@plan.org.au