Last January 12, 2020, news flashed on televisions, radios and in social media platforms about the sudden eruption of Taal Volcano in Batangas. Thousands of individuals, hundreds of families and lots of properties were affected by the disaster and evacuation centers were quickly prepared for the safety of the residents. Due to the sudden eruption of the volcano, many people were not prepared to bring their basic need like clothes, toiletries, food, water and other physiological needs.
It is at this point when private organizations, government agencies and even good-hearted individuals extended a helping hand and reached out to the victims to give aid and provided some of the evacuees’ basic needs. The Open Heart Foundation Worldwide Inc. (OHF) also did a quick response to the victims of volcanic eruption. On January 14, 2020, Tuesday, the OHF staff started the preparation of foods to be given to the victims of volcanic eruption.
Last January 15, 2020, Wednesday, the OHF prepared 500 pcs of packed lunch, 500 bottles of purified water, face masks and 100 pcs sleeping mats good for 4 pax/piece. Staffs of the Foundation conducted a disaster relief operation in three evacuation centers in the City of Tanauan, Province of Batangas on January 16. The activity was in partnership with the Let’s Share Foundation-USA and Living Waters Church-USA and was coordinated with Tanauan City Vice Mayor Jun-Jun Trinidad.
The Organizations firstly did a courtesy call at the Office of the Vice Mayor with the Councilors of Tanauan, Batangas. After the courtesy call, the organizations then proceed to the first Barangay which is the Barangay Pantay-Matanda wherein 222 individuals and 64 families were affected by the volcanic eruption. The second barangay was Barangay Pagaspas wherein 186 individuals and 49 families were affected. Lastly, the Barangay Sala wherein 227 individuals and 39 families were affected and were also reached to give aid.
No help is ever too little. By giving simple aid to the victims made a big impact and gave hope to the community and to the affected residents of Tanauan, Batangas. The Open Heart Foundation sincerely prays for the welfare of the victims.
Article Prepared by:
Desiree Enriquez, RSW
Area Coordinator
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