On November 8, 2013, Typhoon Haiyan ripped through central Philippines, leaving behind destruction in its wake. With entire communities demolished to the ground, more than 3 million people have been displaced as a result of this natural disaster. According to news sources, the death toll is reaching 4,000 and continues to rise as crews sift through the debris and collect bodies. For those that survived, the hardest times are yet to come – the road to recovery and rebuilding will be a long and difficult one.
Recognizing the need for an urgent response, BAPS Charities donated $11,000 to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to support the relief efforts in the Philippines. UNICEF brings years of expertise aiding natural disaster victims in over 150 countries and has an extensive network to quickly reach communities in need. UNICEF is also uniquely positioned to focus on the special needs of children, who are often the most vulnerable survivors of natural disasters. Funds donated will support UNICEF’s efforts to provide both immediate and long-term support to communities in central Philippines.
Natural disasters have a severe effect on communities, and “overwhelm the ability of affected populations to respond”, according to UNICEF. In many developing countries, a natural disaster often leaves local governments struggling to react efficiently to provide basic infrastructure and respond to essential survival needs. The first six to eight weeks following a natural disaster are critical for implementing life-saving interventions, including access to health and nutrition, water, sanitation and child care.
BAPS Charities board member Praful Raja and other representatives presented the donation to the UNICEF on Nov 21, 2013 at their New York headquarters. Lacey Stone, UNICEF representative and Manager of Civil Society of Partnerships, was very appreciative of BAPS Charities’ generous contribution. “The current situation in the Philippines is devastating, and UNICEF is working around the clock to help children and families affected by Typhoon Haiyan,” said Leslie Goldman, Vice President of Program and Community Engagement for the U.S. Fund for UNICEF. “Donations from our partners are critical in supporting our efforts to provide relief in the Philippines, as well as to save children’s lives around the world.”
