Typhoon Haiyan Philippines: 6 months after the typhoon Haiyan, more than one million people have been helped

Out of the funds raised by the Emergency Appeals Alliance (EAA) for the Haiyan victims, 90 million Euros have been used in various aid projects in the Philippines. More than one million people received support in one form or another.

During the first months following the typhoon, funds were used for emergency relief work in the affected regions (food and water supply, sanitation, hygiene kits and other non food items, medical treatment and medical supplies, health promotion and sanitation, child protection activities, psychosocial support, etc).

In the second phase, the aid agencies are now focusing on livelihood recovery projects as well as rehabilitation and reconstruction. Livelihood recovery projects include replacing fishing boats, supporting local agriculture, promoting revenue generating activities and providing education and psychological support in order to rebuild one’s life. Some projects include a cash for work component such as debris clearing or working on reconstruction. Many projects have a clear focus on female-led households.

Per Byman, Chairman of the EAA:

– This is a fantastic example of how joint fundraising really makes a difference. EAA members raised totally 225 million euro towards their respective appeals and these funds are now being used for a variety of projects to support the Philippines in their recovery efforts.

Various agencies provide shelter kits to families who chose to stay in their damaged homes to repair roofs and other parts of the houses. Many projects include cash transfers and grants. In some projects, part of the shelter is built by the NGO whereas the family is encouraged to complete the house by adding floors or walling or further extensions. Very vulnerable families are provided with a complete shelter or receive unconditional cash grants to hire outside assistance for household repairs.

Cash grants are also provided to satisfy food needs for people who lost their source of income or to buy seeds, fertilizers and other agricultural products. Access to clean water remains a key element: water treatment units have been installed in communities, sometimes with the construction of washing and bathing facilities.

The agencies which carry out the projects in the field vary from country to country, including national organisations of Care, Oxfam, Handicap International, ADRA, Caritas, Terre des Hommes, MSF, Plan, Save the Children, Red Cross, Unicef, World Vision, etc.

The cooperation with the Philippines national and local authorities is essential: a comprehensive master plan for rehabilitation is expected to be presented in June, which will facilitate the coordination of the works. Local population continues to be strongly involved in the rehabilitation and reconstruction activities.