Help Rebuild My Hometown After One of the Worst Typhoons in History,

On November 4, Typhoon Tino struck Central Luzon, and just a few days later, on November 9, Typhoon Uwan devastated Northern Luzon. These back-to-back storms brought catastrophic destruction—powerful winds, torrential rain, and severe flooding that wiped out homes, farms, and schools. My hometown of Diadi, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines, was among the hardest hit. Many families—already living in poverty—are now left with nothing. The damage is overwhelming, and the need for help is urgent.

My name is Janet Yost. Now a California resident, I was born and raised in the Philippines in a small farming town where most families depend on the land to survive. My parents worked hard as farmers despite my father’s disability. Their perseverance taught me the value of faith, resilience, and helping others in times of need.

Now, after these devastating typhoons, my hometown and the surrounding areas need us more than ever.

Through my family’s hardware store, which has long been part of the community, we have access to discounted construction materials. With your support, we can purchase these materials to help rebuild homes and schools—bringing safety, hope, and stability back to families and children who have lost so much. This isn’t just about rebuilding structures—it’s about restoring lives and giving our community a chance to stand again.

I will personally travel back to the Philippines this December to oversee the distribution of materials, visit affected families and schools, and ensure that every donation reaches those who truly need it. Before I return to the United States, I will hire and train local workers to continue the rebuilding efforts in my absence. This will not only sustain the project but also provide jobs and empower the community to take ownership of the recovery process.

Every donation—no matter how small—will go directly toward buying construction materials, covering transportation, and supporting local workers who will help rebuild homes and schools.

This Christmas season, please consider lending a helping hand to the families and students of provincial Philippines. Your kindness will bring comfort, dignity, and hope to a community that has endured so much.

Together, we can help Diadi rise again—one family, one classroom, one act of kindness at a time.