Salvos launch Philippines Flood Appeal

The Salvation Army has today launched a national appeal for the millions of people now affected by widespread flooding across the Philippines.

Around 80% of the country has been affected by the floods with hundreds of thousands of people seeking emergency accommodation in evacuation centres.

More than 2.4 million people in 144 municipalities have been affected by the weather so far and more than 3,100 homes have been damaged. While the death toll from days of heavy rains and floods in the Philippines has continued to rise forecasters are expecting even more heavy rain across the main island of Luzon.

Although there appears to be a lull in the deluge, the impact of displacement, sickness, hunger and distress will continue to place pressure on the people of the Philippines.

Major Bruce Harmer from The Salvation Army says the Salvos are already hard at work helping these people through a very difficult and ever changing natural disaster.

The Salvation Army Australia has today committed to an initial financial support of $100,000 for disaster relief with more to come as people support The Salvation Army’s Philippines Disaster Appeal.

'This will no doubt be the start of a long recovery process for the Filipino people. The Salvation Army has served in the Philippines for many years and we are committed to providing assistance in whatever form is required during this natural disaster and in the months to follow. We urge everyone to please give generously to help these people recover from this shocking and ongoing disaster', said Major Harmer.

To donate, simply log on to www.my.salvationarmy.org.au or call 13 SALVOS (13 72 58).