From Elaine:
We are so very thankful for God’s hand of protection over Siargao Island. In spite of the fact that all weather maps and satellite showed them taking a strong hit, there has been no loss of life that we are aware of. Winds topped 150 km and the ocean surge was approximately 50 meters from high tide. Many throughout the Philippines are facing horrendous loss of life and property. You have shown your heart for our family and the ministry that God has entrusted them with.
The rebuilding process has begun and we continue to need your prayers and financial support as always.
The last communication from Derek follows:
Super typhoon Haiyan, known locally as Yolanda, left a path of destruction in numerous communities north of our island.
Yolanda has been classified as one of the biggest storms the world has yet to encounter. Media coverage has given a glimpse into the despair that hovers over these areas.
There is, however, a spirit emerging that reminds me of the positive response following the tragedy of 9-11. An outpouring of love and compassion has inspired people of all nations. They are rallying together to sacrifice time and finances to help bring restoration. Something so destructive has motivated mankind to turn strong emotions into constructive acts of generosity and service.
As a long-time resident of this amazing nation, I am blessed and thankful for all who have taken action to pray and support these initiatives.
Hope for the Island is taking part by tying into other local organizations that are going out into the front lines to serve where the needs are the greatest. Although there has been a lot of aid focused on where the typhoon made landfall, there are so many islands that got wiped out but have not received help yet. We are a nation of over 7,100 islands, with many of them in very remote areas.
With a burdened heart, Let, one of our leaders is making final arrangements to head out to the remote Barangays (villages) of Bantayan Island. There are fishing villages reported to be 90% devastated. With experience in this area, a heart and the Spirit to lead, Let will minister the Father’s love as He leads.
Funds that get donated for this purpose to Hope for the Island will be used to purchase first aid and food stocks suitable for these situations. We ask for your prayer. Let’s prayer request is for safety, especially in light of unstable conditions and that God will use this time for His glory.
Thank you also for all who have contributed towards making necessary repairs at our farm where the most damage occurred. We are also doing research on storm bunker construction so we have plans in place in light of the increasing number of storms and their intensity. With many typhoons hitting the Philippines and two being Category 5 super typhoons within a year; it presses the need to take immediate action to build a storm bunker. The bunker would be built by a local crew on an elevated portion of our property, approximately 70ft. above sea level. The current estimated cost would be $5800 USD
Our farm was hit hard as we reported in our previous blog and repair estimates including materials and labor are:
- Greenhouse and hoop tunnels $5800
- Storage shed $2700
- Nursery $2800
- Livestock pens $2900
Our Mission House is also being constructed and we have made some adjustments in the elevation and design to protect against tidal surges. This has added about $5100.
We want to make sure that we stay focused on ministering to people and we are trusting God as always for His provision, wisdom and strength.
Blessings in Christ
Derek
