How to Help Typhoon Relief Work in the Philippines

With wind gusts of more than 155 mph, typhoon Haiyan may be the most powerful storm ever to hit land. Authorities in the Philippines are assessing damage and counting the dead. The death toll in the Philippine city of Tlacoban may be as high as 10,000, or five percent of the population, according to the New York Times.

In communities where Haiyan shredded buildings and pushed seawater up to the second stories of homes, the demand for relief is outstripping what officials are able to provide. International organizations from the United Nations to the Red Cross are racing to fill the gap. Here’s how you can help:

The World Food Programme: On Sunday, the United Nations agency rushed 44 tons of high energy biscuits to Tlacoban. That’s enough to feed 120,000 people for a day in a city the WFP describes as utterly without food and electricity. You can donate to the WFP here.

The Red Cross: Families in the United States trying to reach family in the Philippines can contact the American Red Cross to start a tracing case. Telecommunications in the areas hit by the typhoon are still down and the Red Cross is delivering emergency communication equipment. Here’s how you can support the Red Cross’ relief work in the aftermath of Haiyan. Donors can also mail a check to their local chapter.  Be sure to write Philippines Typhoon Appeal in the subject line. 

Doctors Without Borders: The international medical relief group is planning to send 30 medical professionals to the Philippines, along with 200 tons of medical equipment. Donate here.