Hello, everyone! My name is Rhusette Ricafort, and I’m raising funds for families in an area near my hometown - Tagmamarkay, Tubay, Agusan del Norte — who were deeply affected by Typhoon Uwan and Typhoon Tino.

Last November 11, I joined Ms. Rita Hammond and fellow Zumba instructors for a Zumbathon fundraiser here in the U.S. Together, we raised $2,000, which will help provide Noche Buena packs for 100 families. In the Philippines, Christmas isn't complete without Noche Buena - a warm Christmas Eve meal that families share together. After the typhoons Uwan and Tino hit so many homes in Tagmamarkay, many families can no longer afford even the simplest Noche Buena. This fundraiser helps them feel the joy of Christmas again, especially the children who look forward to this tradition every year.

However, during my sister’s visit to the area, she spoke with the barangay captain (head of the village) who confirmed that two communities were devastated the most:

• Purok 2

• Angel Amante’s Village

Together, these areas include 200 households — families who lost homes, belongings, and livelihoods in a matter of hours. Many are still displaced. Many have nothing left to celebrate Christmas with.

Right now, we only have enough to help half of them.

That’s why I created this GoFundMe — because I don’t want to leave 100 families behind when all 200 are praying for relief.

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✨ My Goal

To raise enough so that every single family can receive a Noche Buena pack this Christmas Eve — not just food, but a reminder that they are seen, loved, and not forgotten.

Even one night of hope can mean everything after weeks of loss.

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✨ Distribution Date

I will be flying home to the Philippines on December 15.

I will personally hand out the Noche Buena packages on December 18.

I will also share photo and video updates to maintain full transparency.

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✨ Why This Matters

Many families in Tagmamarkay have:

• Lost their homes

• Lost their belongings

• Lost their source of income

• Been displaced due to flooding

A simple Noche Buena meal brings comfort, dignity, and a sense of normalcy — especially for the children.

⸻

How You Can Help

Any amount — even $5 — makes a real difference.

You can help give 200 families hope this Christmas.

Thank you so much for your kindness, compassion, and generosity.

— Rhusette Ricafort

Estimated Cost per Noche Buena Pack: 1,054php (around $18)

1 bag of groceries per family @ 1,000php each includes:

 5kgs Rice - 200.00php

 1kg Spaghetti - 250.00php

 (12) sachets 3-in1 Coffee - 100.00php

 (12) sachets bearbrand - 150.00php

 (4) cans of beefloaf @25php/can - 100.00php

 (2) cans of corned beef @54php/can - 54.00php

 (1) pack of biscuits - 100.00php

 (1) pack of noodles - 100.00php

Total of 1054.00php (around $18)