AAI programs emphasize nutrition and hygiene
"Deeds rather than Words" and "Empowerment Rather Than Charity" are among the most important lessons we have learned from our Asia America Initiative relief campaigns in the post-Typhoon Haiyan areas of the Philippines. We have been consistent in our actions during the two years of assisting communities that were devastated by Haiyan and numerous other typhoons, floods, earthquakes -- as well as intensive poverty, hunger and violent civil conflict. We believe the never-give-up attitude of our Filipino communities, whether Christian, Muslim or mountain tribes are joyful examples of how natural or man-made disasters that cause the suffering of millions of people can be mitigated though teamwork and positive attitudes. Simply stated: Partnerships work.
In the words of Arlyn P. a sixth grader at Catig-Lacadon Elementary School in Duenas, Iloilo: "Dear AAI and Prof. Santoli: Thank you for giving many books, school supplies, rubber sandals and seeds for our garden. Our Moms and Dads are always helping our school too. Many children here are very happy because in the afternoon we can go to the school library and read the books you gave. God love you and your family. Truly yours, ARLYN.
Nurse Faith dela Torre, AAI's program coordinator in westen Visayas reports, "In our ten elementary schools in Duenas and Cuartero, Capiz the parents are conducting Christmas carolling and other events to raise proceeds for the construction of temporary and permanent classrooms. The classrooms are made of bamboo and the parents work with their hands to finish the buildings, which still have no roofs. After Typhoon Haiyan they put up plastic or cloth tents as their roofs, but recent storms have destroyed the makeshift roofs again. Only a year ago, when we started the daily feeding programs based on school gardens and Moms volunteering to cook healthy lunches at the schools, the childen were mostly suffering malnutrition. Today almost 90 percent have gained wieight and attend school every day, thanks to AAI and the parents and teachers all working together to assist the children."
Your support helps AAI to develop grass-roots programs, modeled in the Philippines, that demonstrate how people of good will can work across cultures and religions to revitalize communities through teamwork and trust.
Please remember that fon Thursday November 5th, from 8 pm Eastern Time [5 pm West Coast time] time until midninight, Global Giving will double your donations for this typhoon relief program. Every contribution matters. Much appreciated.
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