Solar Energy Foundation aiding relief workers in Philippines

The massive tropical cyclone, one of the strongest typhoons in recorded history, hit the Philippines on Nov. 8, killing thousands, displacing some 800,000, affecting millions of people across 270 towns and cities and leaving a wake of destruction.

“For those who need it most, power and communications have been wiped out,” the foundation said on its website. “These are essential tools to bring people to safety, access critical information and navigate disaster. As the sun sets and night falls, darkness becomes an isolating threat. We want to ensure no one is left in the dark.”

The Solar Energy Foundation Philippines is mobilizing a joint relief effort with on-the-ground rescue in the areas hit hardest by the typhoon by providing access to light, energy and communications starting in the cities and areas of Tacloban, Ormoc, Iloilo, Roxas City and Busuanga.

The foundation is collecting donations to help the immediately deployment of solar lanterns with mobile phone chargers to partner organizations, including the Red Cross, Peace and Equity Foundation, TaosPuso Foundation, Life Bank Foundation, Iloilo-CODE, CCT and CARD. Organizations are also seeking solar equipment for relief centers, hospitals and communication.

The Solar Energy Foundation operates the StS International Network for Rural Development, which works with both non-profit and for-profit organizations to promote social and financial sustainability by providing training, product development and financing in rural areas of developing countries in Africa and Asia since 2005.