Give to children

Philippines Children’s Flood Appeal 2009

A boy carries supplies through waist-high floodwater in Pasig City in Manila.

On 26 September 2009, tropical storm Ondoy (international name Typhoon Ketsana) hit the Philippines with devastating force, flooding 25 per cent of Metro Manila and affecting the lives of close to 2 million people, many women and children.

With 24 provinces around the country affected, some 600,000 men, women and children are being relocated to around 600 evacuation centres. Almost half are children. Vulnerable to sickness and hunger, these children require urgent assistance.

Responding within 24 hours

UNICEF was on the ground within 24 hours, working within the National Disaster Coordinating Council, to supply food and other essential supplies as well as temporary shelters to flood-stricken communities. As of 29 October, RM 486,200 (US$ 143,000) has been used to help children and their families. Learn more about UNICEF's actions.

As emergency relief efforts continue, UNICEF is concerned about the storm’s long-term effects on children, including health risks posed by the widespread flooding and inadequate safe-water supply. There is additional concern in the region about two other tropical storms that are likely to make landfall later this week, with potentially devastating results.

UNICEF urgently needs funds to deliver essential emergency supplies including medicines, water purification tablets and blankets. Please give whatever you can to help children affected by this disaster, by making a donation today.