A family I personally know, met, and spent time with during my recent visit to the Philippines has been deeply affected by the recent earthquake. They are urgently in need of the most basic necessities—rice and clean water—to sustain themselves and their extended family.

When I visited this community within the last six months, this family welcomed me as one of their own. They treated me with respect, fed me, showed me their home, and embraced me like family. Now, after this devastating earthquake, it’s my turn to give back to them.

They have not asked me to do this—I am organizing this fundraiser of my own free will because I believe in helping those who treated me as family. All they’ve expressed needing is rice and water. But I know, with the support of my friends and family here in the U.S., we can provide them with more than just the bare minimum.

I’ve set a goal of $2,500. While this may seem small by U.S. standards, it will go an incredibly long way in the Philippines, where the cost of living is far lower (5 gallons of water is roughly $2 and less than $1 for a kg of rice). This amount will provide food, clean water, and critical supplies to carry them through this difficult time.

I will personally transfer the funds directly to the family through Western Union and will share updates, receipts, and photos so you can see exactly how your donations are making a difference. Within the next 30 days, I will also be traveling back to the Philippines and will provide firsthand updates on how the family is doing.

How You Can Help:

• Donate whatever amount you can—every dollar truly counts ($10 can feed them rice and water for days).

• Share this campaign with others who may want to help.

Together, we can ensure this family has food, water, and hope as they rebuild their lives after the earthquake. Thank you for your generosity and compassion.