Local Filipinos are raising funds for victims of two recent natural disasters in the Philippines.
The Filipino Community of Seattle had planned a dinner benefit on Nov. 22 to help the victims of a devastating earthquake that rocked the country last month. Then Typhoon Haiyan slammed into the country on Nov. 8, killing an estimated 10,000 people.
"It's just unbelievable, one disaster after another," said Alma Kern, president of the Filipino Community of Seattle.
Kern said the group has set up fundraising accounts at Wells Fargo and BECU, and donations can be made at the banks' branches. The group is also accepting canned foods, shampoo, toothbrushes, and toothpaste at its Seattle office, located at 5740 Martin Luther King, Jr. Way South.
Federal Way-based World Vision has sent a relief flight with 5,000 blankets and 3,000 tarpaulins for temporary shelter. Portland-based Mercy Corps is also sending an emergency team to the country. Both are taking online donations.
The Archdiocese of Seattle is also collecting donations though Catholic Relief Services.
