Helping Those in Need

IHHELPP Responds to Needs Related to COVID-19

The buzz word for this COVID-19 pandemic is "unprecedented". It truly is. Millions of people in over 200 countries are affected. The growing number of deaths and new infections have risen but is showing some decline over the last few days. In these modern times, no one  imagined that such a time where we are told not go to work, to stay home, and to physically distance ourselves from our friends and neighbors could happen. Places of worship are closed along with shops, restaurants, and public places of gathering. Many are feeling isolated, claustrophobic, and suffocated. But the hardest part of all of this, is the pain and suffering that many people are experiencing. 

Reports from those with moderate to severe symptoms give us a glimpse of their suffering. The feeling of drowning when air is unable to get into their lungs is a scary experience for many. The feeling of isolation and loneliness when they need their loved ones the most to be by their side but couldn't. The pain of losing a loved one alone due to isolation is something that will take a long time to forget. 

The inability to go to work presents a huge problem especially in third world countries like the Philippines. We heard from our contact in Negros the many families that are going hungry. As a result, we sent funds to purchase food items that helped 80 families. We are grateful for Brother Ernesto Villaruz for his persistence and leadership and to those who assisted him in this effort. 

Meanwhile, in Manila, hospitals are in dire need of personal protective equipment for the front line staff. With the coordination efforts of Josephine Villalon and her husband, we are donating the much needed PPEs and hand sanitizers to Fabella Memorial Hospital. Thank you!

Most importantly from IHHELPP, we will continue to offer our supplication to the Almighty to lift this plague and heal our land. We will never forget the lessons learned from this experience. 

May we all resolve to help those around us and be an example of Christlike living. 

Emmie Comer
IHHELPP Director of Philanthropy