UN seeks $6.5M in aid after Typhoon Odette

Houses and trees damaged by typhoon Rai are seen, in Surigao del Norte, December 18, 2021.  (PCG via Reuters)

UNITED NATIONS–The United Nations will kick off a campaign Friday to raise $6.5 million in aid for victims of Typhoon Odette (international name: Rai), which ravaged the Philippines last week, the organization’s in-country coordinator said.

“Tomorrow, we’ll be launching at the local level with the international community represented in Manila… a presentation of the humanitarian needs and priority plan,” Gustavo Gonzalez told a virtual press conference Thursday.

“The financial ask is $6.5 millions dollars,” he said.

The money will be targeted towards 530,000 people in the worst-affected areas, who are in dire need of health logistics, access to drinking water, and sanitation facilities.

“There is momentum for full support,” said Gonzalez. “Now the challenge is that all of this announcement and solidarity is rapidly translated into concrete actions.”

Super Typhoon Odette devastated parts of the Philippines one week ago, leaving at least 375 people dead, largely in the Visayas and Mindanao.

It destroyed homes, uprooted trees, and knocked out power for many cities across the country.