Rise up, Bicol!
Last March, I was in Bicol, Philippines, speaking at a camp with youth from these communities affected by the disaster. Through your generosity, we were able to contribute to the relief efforts of Jubilee and her team.
Read her update below to learn how you can be praying for those affected by the typhoons throughout the Philippines.
With heartfelt thanks,
Buena Tupe
Founder
People of Grace International
RELIEF FOR BICOL
Delivering Hope & Essentials
On Oct. 22, 2024, Bicol was hit by a powerful typhoon Kristine that flooded multiple cities and municipalities. Floodwaters rose unexpectedly and rapidly, reaching places that had never been affected before. One town was submerged in water for two weeks.
We were blessed to have a safe place to evacuate--our restaurant--where we had water to drink, food to eat, a dry place to rest, and the comfort of knowing our family was safe. But many families were not as fortunate, trapped in the flood without basic necessities. We couldn't just stand by and watch; we had to act.
Since day one after the typhoon, we've been distributing food packs to flood victims. We started by cooking porridge (Arroz Caldo) for the closest evacuation center, where over 100 evacuees had gathered. Soon after, we began sharing our efforts on social media, and people like you responded. All the help and support gave us the strength and resources to do more. In the following days, we reached additional flooded areas, delivering food packs, drinking water, and donated clothing. Seeing firsthand the conditions they faced, we understood how even a single bottle of water could be invaluable.
After a week, as the floodwaters began to recede, we shifted our focus to providing essential supplies, knowing that families could begin cooking for themselves again. That's when we reached out to you and you responded right away. Now, the flooded towns and cities are very dusty and smelly with a lot of garbage everywhere. There aren’t enough trucks to collect the garbage. The heat is unbearable and causing a lot to get sick.
The funds we collected from all the donations are used to purchase rice, canned goods, noodles, bread, drinking water, soap, and fuel for our transport. With these donations, we reached a total of five communities: one in Minalbac, two in Gainza, one in Buhi, and several neighborhoods in Naga City. The help you gave not only provided food but also brought hope-the hope to rebuild and restart.
From the bottom of our hearts, and on behalf of all those you have helped, we say: "SALAMAT SA INDO GABOS, DIOS MABALOS." (Thank you all; may God repay you.)
Your kindness has made a real difference in countless lives.
Written by Jubilee (Sorsogon, Bicol)
P.S. Through your monthly gifts, we can provide continued support to our partners around the world and help fund the education of vulnerable children and youth.
Would you consider making a monthly impact, gifting at least $35/month? You may click on the button below to make a monthly impact.
Ways to Give
Online: bit.ly/pogigift
Cheques to ICMS: Please include a "separate" note – For People of Grace International
Call or Email: (604) 240-5096 or peopleofgraceintl@gmail.com
