CNN said this storm was three and a half times the size of Hurricane Katrina. It has been called the worst storm that has ever made landfall in the history of the Philippines. 

Over the last few days, we have watched the 11.3 million people impacted by Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. The city of Tacloban in Leyte is the worst hit of all. So far, President Aquino estimates that there have been 2,500 deaths while many fear that number to be many more. The UN reported 673,000 people are displaced from their homes, needing immediate help for their survival.

HOPE worldwide responded quickly by mobilizing water and relief goods to Daan Bantayan in the North of Cebu City and Tacloban City in Leyte. Wil Horwood, part of HOPE worldwide's Global Coordinating Council, said: 

"HOPE worldwide has been one of the first INGOs to assist on the ground because of its team already in the Philippines who have dealt with previous natural disasters there." 

Teams from Manila and Cebu have already managed to bring aid to Tacloban after the typhoon destroyed this well developed island. Koko Enrile, who led the relief team from Manila described what they saw in Tacloban City

"We were all shocked by the massive destruction we saw. Streams of people were walking to get out of the city to seek shelter outside as most homes have either been totally destroyed or heavily damaged. There is a shortage of food and water so some residents have resorted to looting food warehouses despite the declaration of martial law. The city looks like it was war ravaged or worst. We gave out relief goods and first aid kits and water to the survivors who displayed such gratitude, that tears were flowing unashamedly from everyone."

The relief teams are providing emergency supplies and access to shelter.  Further life-saving supplies and medical support are being mobilized.

Please help HOPE worldwide by supporting our relief efforts in the Philippines by donating now. If you are a UK taxpayer, please select the Gift Aid option so that the government will provide 25p from the tax that you have paid for every £1 that you donate.