Residents of Drumheller are showing support for the thousands in the Philippines affected by Typhoon Haiyan.
The storm hit the island nation last Friday devastating communities and killing scores of people.
Drumheller’s Filipino community has mobilized and has begun collecting some of the necessities to be used in the aid effort.
Heidi Galleon says she knows of a couple of families in the Drumheller community who have relatives in the affected area, so this hits close to home. Many have friends who are also affected by the typhoon, as thousands are displaced.
The Drumheller Filipino community, which is about 300 strong, has begun collecting items to help in the aid effort.
Gilbert Galleon owns the JC Convenience Store and Asian Food on Centre Street. His business uses a shipping company that has allowed them space to ship aid items.
So far, donations have been coming in strong from within the Filipino community as well as the wider Drumheller community.
Some members are finding unique ways to raise money including auctioning items online. Heidi says they are looking at other efforts including putting collection jars in stores.
They are grateful for all the support they are receiving.
Heidi said some of the items needed include blankets, towels, bedsheets and non perishable food, toiletries, socks and shoes. Items can be dropped off at JC Convenience Store.
One of the most important things needed is money, because it is immediate and can be used on the ground for virtually anything. They have been receiving a number of cash donations.
They are hoping to have the items packed by this Saturday, November 16 to be shipped.
For more information on how to help, contact Heidi Galleon at 403-820-5956.
