Flooding Aftermath

We have had many questions about the aftermath of the flooding. For us personally, we have only had minor inconveniences, like minimal trash service and increase in ants inside the house.

However, our ward was hit fairly badly. Most families have recovered, but 15 have especially had trouble since they were in one story homes and lost many belongings. The relief trucks from the church came almost two weeks ago during Relief Society and provided blankets, rice and noodles to the families in need. Jeffrey's school collected household donations for two weeks and supplied many truckloads of water, clothing and food to our sister school and a local charity.

Pete's mission areas in Pangasinan, suffered major flooding from the Typhoon that missed Manila. A dam broke nearby and compounded the problems. Many of you have asked how you can help. At this point, sending donations would probably not be timely. It has been difficult for us to find ways to help besides contributing money. As we are approaching the holiday season and many are feeling more charitable, here are some of my favorite charities:

1. The LDS Church Humanitarian Fund

Many Mormons think that Tithing or Fast Offering Funds help in natural disasters and relief aid. My understanding is that they do not. That money comes from the Humanitarian Fund, an often forgotten part of the tithing slip. If you want to contribute money to the Church's phenomenal efforts in this regard, the Humanitarian Fund will provide food and aid to help people throughout the world. For more information, see http://www.ldsphilanthropies.org/humanitarian-services/

2. The Sabin Children's Foundation

I have great love for the Sabin family and have been so impressed for all they do. Their foundation has built wells, helped with relief efforts and medical projects in many countries, including the Philippines. I have visited the halfway house here numerous times and seen what a difference their medical clinic makes. For more information, see http://www.sabinchildrensfoundation.org/

3. Rising Star Outreach

Pete and I attended classes by Becky Douglas at education week. She is the founder of Rising Star which helps children of lepers in India. For a small amount each month, you can sponsor a child and basically provide for their food, housing and education. Pretty amazing. For more information, see http://www.risingstaroutreach.org/

Of course, there are many other ways and means to help the less fortunate. Good luck.