Typhoon Kammuri - Philippines

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 2, 2019

ChildFund Focuses on Children After Typhoon Kammuri – Philippines

Richmond, VA – When disaster strikes, children are ChildFund International’s first concern, and we are poised to address their needs after Typhoon Kammuri, which is pummeling the central Philippines with 100-mph winds and torrential rain. Like any kind of violence, natural disasters often damage and even destroy a child’s connections to the things she needs most: her family, education, health care, nutrition, safety and more. ChildFund is gearing up to ensure that those critical connections are quickly restored.

“Imagine being a little kid watching your frantic parents trying to figure out food and shelter when everything has been swept away,” said Anne Lynam Goddard, ChildFund’s President and CEO. “Mom and Dad are struggling just to keep you safe and fed, let alone help you process the trauma you’ve just suffered. That’s where ChildFund comes in.”

Our ongoing response since October’s multiple earthquakes in Mindanao demonstrates the power of attention to children’s emotional as well as physical well-being. With many schools damaged or destroyed in the region, ChildFund set up temporary learning spaces where children can continue their studies while rebuilding gets underway. Otherwise, while the government and other organizations were able to address many of the practical issues arising from the quakes, the Department of Education identified a significant need for “psychological first aid” (PFA) and psychosocial support for children. Since then, ChildFund's PFA sessions have helped over 600 teachers cope with the psychological aftershocks of the trauma and, in turn, help their students – nearly 14,000 of them – do the same.

We foresee launching similar efforts once we are able to assess the situation following Typhoon Kammuri. ChildFund already has committed funds for the response, but, especially in light of the continuing Mindanao response, more will be needed. To make a donation to help children and families suffering in the aftermath of Typhoon Kammuri, please visit www.ChildFund.org/emergency.

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About ChildFund International
ChildFund International works throughout Asia, Africa and the Americas – including the United States – to create connections that allow children to choose and change their stories wherever they are. Our programs address the underlying conditions that prevent any child or youth from achieving their full potential. Last year, we reached 10.5 million children and family members. About 200,000 Americans support our work by sponsoring individual children or investing in ChildFund programs. Find out more at www.ChildFund.org.