Marking the 2nd year anniversary of Typhoon “Yolanda” (international name Haiyan), leaders and representatives of the Philippine Red Cross and partners, headed by chairman Richard Gordon, led the ceremonial turnover of constructed homes in 13 barangays in New Washington, Aklan.
PRC’s shelter project under its Typhoon Haiyan Recovery Program was able to built 8,885 homes for affected families in Aklan. Red Cross and partners were also able to provide livelihood assistance to 6,671 Aklanon families.
Aside from shelter and livelihood, Red Cross assistance in Aklan includes the repair and rehabilitation of two water and sanitation facilities, six health facilities, and 18 classrooms.
“The Yolanda experience has transformed the Philippine Red Cross into a full service Red Cross. No longer is the Philippine Red Cross just a provider of first aid and assistance in the midst of natural calamities and disasters; the PRC has become a partner in providing basic services and continuing assistance in giving back not only what the people have lost but more importantly helping them get back their lives and dignity,” said chairman Gordon.
During the emergency phase of the Red Cross Typhoon Haiyan operations in Aklan, 14,750 families received food items; 19,217 families received non-food items which include plastic mats, blankets, mosquito nets, jerry cans, kitchen sets, hygiene kits, and shelter repair kits; and a total of P7.7 million were disbursed as emergency cash relief; for a total of P85.2 million in aid.
However, work is not over even after two years as the PRC continues to move forward in achieving its commitment to the countless families affected by Typhoon Yolanda.
Aklan was one of the provinces that was hit hardest by Typhoon Yolanda, which left 33,503 people with totally damaged homes and 51,469 with partially damaged houses in the province, according to reports.
“The Philippine Red Cross understands that action without direction is nothing. We, the PRC, pride ourselves in being there at times when people need us most, sharing hope when there doesn’t seem to be any, and providing light when others cannot see the way,” said Gordon. “As long as the PRC lives, we will continue to serve, protect and be of service to the Filipino people.”