More than 100000 people fled to evacuation centers in Tacloban ahead of Typhon Hagupit. An estimated 30000 stayed at the 49 evacuation camps designated by the city government as early as 2-3 days before the projected landfall.
These photos note people gathered inside Redemptorist Church in Tacloban. As the typhoon pounded on the city,half of the city’s population was holed safely in the camps wondering what will be left behind. Tacloban was one of the cities hit hardest by Typhoon Haiyan last year. The storm killed more than 6000 and left many more homeless in November of last year. World Vision started distribution of emergency essentials today for 2500 families in three evacuation camps composed of water and hygiene kits. The kits are composed of soaps and detergents, toothbrushes, or sanitary pads,underwear for men and women, nail cutters and malong (shawl) which often used as a substitute for a blanket in cold weather. In one state university, and at least 5000 gain flocked for refuge. Many of these camps are churches,schools and public gymnasiums which do not gain enough toilet and bathroom facilities to accommodate thousands. Operations Director Jennifer MacCann said, “World Vision will focus on helping the most vulnerable families who will likely stay in the camps for a week or so while they are fixing their houses again.” MacCann expects the relief team to start the distribution today and total it in a day or two to address the people’s urgent needs. World Vision is committed to helping 55000 people affected in coming weeks as assessment results are finalized. Fatima Luza, or 54,a single mother lamented her loses after the typhoon. Her house was barely finished from being rebuilt and the small roadside eatery she has established for livelihood was destroyed. “We will gain the same Christmas last and this year. But I am still thankful that we were all secure”, Luza said with sadness.
Source: cnn.com