As the death toll of Typhoon Haiyan is expected to rise to more than 2,500, the world watches while Tacloban, Philippines residents prepare to rebuild and move on.
The tropical storm that evolved into one of the strongest typhoons on record ripped through the region on Nov. 8 destroying homes and destroying communities.
ìRelatives (of ours) are very emotional,î Jovelyn Colorado-Inocando, president of the Filipino Womenís League based out of Airdrie said. ìItís just devastating.î
The Filipino Womenís league wanted to do something to help, so the group has been collecting clothing from all over Rocky View County and Airdrie to ship to those affected by the storm.
ìLots of Filipino organizations and even private Filipino citizens are probably doing Relief Operation Drives,î Colorado-Inocando said.
ìIn my case, Iím spearheading a ëClothing-Medicine-Cashí Donation Drive.î
The Filipino Overseas Grateful Workers (FOGWA) Association ñ a national Filipino society - is also helping on their donation drive, Colorado-Inocando said and explained that they are mostly receiving donations of clothing for people who have lost everything.
She also explained that the amount of donations has been overwhelming.
ì(Weíve received) tons,î she explained. ìWe maybe have all together more than 20 boxes, thatís a lot.î
Now the challenge becomes covering the cost of the shipping fare for the donation boxes to reach those who need them.
ìNow we need funding for shipping cost,î she explained. ìWe have very good intentions and we really want to help in whatever way we could. I will also make a letter and ask permission to my/any workplace to allow us to put out a donation box, and they are very accommodating.î
She estimates that each box will cost $50 to ship, which as of press time would total $1,000.
Those wanting to contribute a monetary donation or drop off clothing to their cause can contact [email protected] or call at 403-613-4018, as there are now specific drop-off sites and those involved are housing the boxes at their homes.
The Government of Canada has committed to matching Canadiansí donations for those affected by the storm, to either the Canadian Red Cross and United Way dollar for dollar and will be donating $5 million for humanitarian efforts in the area.
