Disaster Relief
Albay Province, Philippines
 

On November 30, 2006, Typhoon Durian hit the northern Philippine islands with winds of up to 155 mph. This super typhoon was the culmination of a series of natural events that left the Padang area devastated. It all began earlier that year in July, when the Mayon Volcano became active and sent lava running down its slopes. At this time, the lava did not present an imminent danger, however in late September, the area was hit by Typhoon Xangsane with winds of up to 145 mph. Winds and flooding damaged much of southern Luzon, including the Padang area, but worse was yet to come. When Typhoon Durian hit in November, heavy rains created mudslides of volcanic ash and boulders that covered houses up to their rooftops. The extreme winds from the typhoon also devastated many areas of the island that were already hit hard by Typhoon Xangsane.

The Caris Foundation provided funds and sent a team to the island to help in the relief effort for those in the Padang area. Food was a primary concern, but because it rains so often there, shelter was also important. The Filipino volunteers went to work cooking, repairing buildings and digging out from the mudslide. For many houses, tarps were used as a temporary means of repair. Caris also refurbished a local elementary school that was heavily damaged.

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