The Canadian Red Cross is working closely with the Philippine Red Cross to provide relief to the millions affected by Typhoon Haiyan which caused widespread damage including landslides and flooding.
The Philippine Red Cross is supporting local safe shelters, delivering relief supplies, and working to rescue those who are trapped. Red Cross rapid assessment teams are working to gain access to the worst affected areas but initial damage reports indicate significant damage to the region.
The Canadian Red Cross is deploying its Basic Health Care Emergency Response Unit with support from Norwegian Red Cross and Hong Kong Red Cross. This field clinic will provide life-saving medical services and support the local health authorities in meeting the needs of affected communities. The ERU can support the health needs of 30,000 people and has the capacity to provide out-patient services including treating infections, broken bones, malnutrition, and providing psychosocial support.
The Canadian Red Cross is appealing for funds to help those affected by Typhoon Haiyan. Donations made by individual Canadians between November 8 and December 9, 2013 will be matched by the Government of Canada. Donations can be made online or by texting REDCROSS or ROUGE to 30333 to make an automatic $5 donation.