Utter devastation.. cannot even fully describe the effects of Typhoon Odette on the Philippines. As you all know, the typhoon made landfall 4 days ago and obliterated communities across so many islands. The needs are overwhelming; some people have lost multiple family members, on top of losing their homes, destroying crops, and practically EVERYTHING they own. People are making makeshift shelter from debris, they are lacking food and water.. basic needs for survival.

” basta buhi!” (Being alive is enough!) is oftentimes heard in these local communities after suffering from devastation like this. As long as one is alive, there is hope is a belief shared my many; this is a testament to their resilience. However the recovery is going to be long and hard. This has compelled me to start gofundme to see if any of my family members, friends, anyone would be willing to help. It’s heartbreaking for them to lose everything especially so close to Christmas.

The funds raised is intended to buy building materials for roofs, being that it is still rainy season in the Philippines right now this is absolutely necessary.. We are targeting Surigao in Mindanao as the place where we will be sending these materials to. Funds raised will be sent to a local organizer in my hometown Mr. Noli Moncada . As some of you may know we have done this successfully after the recent earthquake in Mindanao where we delivered over 1000 food packages to hard hit places. If we surpass our goal, additional funds will be used to send food, water and other necessities. Thank you so much to all of you! I hope we can bring a smile though be it brief to those affected especially this Christmas season.

Sincerely,

Roselle Swilley

Navarre Florida