More than $26,000 has been raised by the Filipino-Canadian community in Vernon since the world learned about the Typhoon Hainan disaster in the Philippines.
A recent fundraising potluck at W.L Seaton secondary school brought out a large crowd of people from the local Filipino community to enjoy traditional treats, live music and a silent auction, as well as an emotional slide show depicting the devastation that followed in the wake of the Nov. 8 typhoon. The event brought in $700.
The disaster has claimed more than 5,000 lives and affected an estimated 10 million people.
“The outpouring of generosity has been overwhelming,” said Bernie Ramis, organizer and past-president of Club Filipino of Okanagan Shuswap. “The Filipino-Canadian community in Vernon is really proud and thankful that we are surrounded by generous and caring hearts.
“All the money we raised will help rebuild lives in the Philippines and will help them get back on their feet and be self-sufficient again.”
