In December 2021, Super Typhoon Rai (known locally as Odette) devastated parts of the Philippines, causing $500 million in damage. The typhoon disproportionately harmed vulnerable communities, including Eleison’s clients. Several days following the typhoon, we immediately launched an outreach program to our clients, documenting their needs and providing crisis response.
In total, 99% of our clients reported insufficient food and/or water, along with 68% reporting housing damage and 44% with medical needs. To address these needs, we launched our four-phase Odette Emergency Response (OER) program:
Phase 1: Eleison conducted outreach to all our active clients and provided emergency relief packs containing food and water. Eleison staff drove door-to-door in the aftermath of the typhoon, hand-delivering emergency relief goods starting on Christmas Eve.
Phases 2 and 3: We sent cash transfers to clients for housing, food, water, medical, mental health, and crisis needs. Additionally, we provided psychosocial support and referrals to community services.
Phase 4: Mental health concerns became more apparent as time passed. In the closing phase, Eleison prioritized mental health support and referrals for community services.
Throughout the OER program, we provided mental health support to 77 clients, along with 68 emergency relief packs and 114 cash transfers. Upon completion of OER, we conducted two focus group discussions (FGDs) to elicit feedback from our clients. Clients particularly appreciated the fast response from the Eleison team:
“I feel overwhelmed. Overwhelmed, Miss, for the support given by the staff because you really made an effort in contacting us. You found a way to send us cash. And also we are really thankful for your effort in buying the groceries. Even if there’s a typhoon and we knew that your own houses were also damaged, but you still prioritized us.” – Eleison client
While clients appreciated the food and water, survivors overwhelmingly spoke to the value of the emotional support they received from Eleison staff:
“Aside from the programs, you are there for me to check in on our feelings, what we felt at that time. That’s why I appreciate because it’s really nice to feel that someone will give you importance by asking ‘Are you okay?,’ ‘What do you feel?’ That’s what I appreciate, Miss, aside from the relief that you gave.” – Eleison client
Additionally, survivors shared how important it was to them that Eleison was there for them throughout the entire recovery process, knowing that the Eleison staff truly cared for them at each step:
“I’ve seen that you never left us. I am an ‘old’ client already. I did not expect that. You cared for us in times of difficulty. I really like it here at Eleison because this is where I feel safe. If there’s a change in my feelings, if there’s a change in my life, I can openly share it here. Out of all organizations that I have known, you were the first to respond. I am really thankful to Eleison. You are always there to give comfort, always checking in on us. When we are still in a shelter, we are included, but if we are out of the shelter, that’s where their services also stop. They will no longer give us value. It’s really different here. That’s why when I found this organization, this is where I see that if I have a problem, you will listen. You always give me comfort.” – Eleison client
