CCOWESPONDENCE Care Caravan

For Donations Account Name : CCOWEF, Phils Branch : Banawe Banco de Oro : 001370074075 Metrobank : 065-3-06515488-0 Contact Person(s) : Allen Uy - 09178309212/09228309212 Leslie Sun - 09178831115/09323303461 Calvin Chu - 09175548847

CARAVAN

ISSUE NO. 1

February 2012

Despite heavy rains, on August 28, 42 people from 16 different churches gathered at the Quezon City Sports Club for “Convergence.” The gathering was made up of leaders, representatives from different churches and individuals with a passion for outreach. It aims to mobilize FilipinoChinese Christians to work together for the less privileged sector of society and those hardest hit when disaster or calamity strikes.

The program started with an icebreaker for participants to get to know each other and to say something on volunteerism, current or future involvement. The idea is to create a web with the help of a string to show that we are bound together, that churches and individuals are interconnected; by working together we will be able to create a bigger impact on society. It is wonderful to note that this short activity revealed how participants are already active advocates in helping make society a better place to live in.

Reverend Rey Bechayda, President of the Messiah Mission International Ministry and EE Coordinator for NCR, gave a short but inspiring message on loving our neighbor and how the world needs us to show that we care because God cares. CCOWEF Chairman, Samson Su, also graced the event and was excited to know that his vision of extensive and coordinated social service in action is now possible.

Together, We Can Do More

By Rhea Bless Lerado (Glory Evangelical Church)

Participants were then asked to form into four groups for an in-depth discussion and to answer three questions: (1) What is your/ your church’s current involvement in outreach ministries? (2) Given the resources (time, budget, network), what outreach program would you like to institute? and (3) Suggest possible names for the outreach movement .

Convergence is the interlinking process emerging from a common goal. It is the act

Love Out Loud

1st Road Trip: New Cabalan, Olongapo City

by Leslie Sun, United Evangelical Church of Balintawak “The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’ Matthew 25:40 The Care Caravan team made its initial disaster relief assistance to victims of floods and landslides due to Typhoon Pedring and Quiel at New Cabalan, Olongapo city last November 16, 2011.

More than 100 families who belong to Christian churches accredited by Convoy of Hope received family relief packs courtesy of United Evangelical Church of Balintawak and Caloocan Chinese Baptist Church.

The smile on their faces upon receiving our assistance reminded us that the many blessings we receive daily should not simply be kept for personal satisfaction, but rather they can be shared to others who are in need. With this action, we extend to them God’s love in tangible ways that will make a lasting impression in their hearts.

The C.A.R.E. (Christians Aspiring to Reach Out and Empower) Caravan’s vision is to mobilize Chinese Christian churches to extend assistance to the less privileged sector of our society. It is not only to provide for their physical needs, but also to empower them by providing a holistic community development plan that can uplift their standard of living on a long-term basis.

We are holding a year round collection of old clothes and non- perishable items that will be stored for future emergency use as disaster may strike anytime.

People who were with us on this particular trip are: CCOWEF Team (Allen Uy, Leslie Sun, Marilen Co, Sheryl Tiu) , Convoy of Hope Team ( Founder and President Hal Donaldon, Senior Vice-President of Global Initiatives Kary Kingsland, International Programs Director Kevin Rose, Country Director Raul Manuel, Jeremy Denief, Dan Block, Candice Manuel).

Churches-beneficiaries of the Family Relief Packs (FRP) include the Bethel Mission Church, Jesus Christ the Living Rock church, Assembly of God church (Hermosa, Bataan), Word of Hope tribal ministry.

of joining together as one. Volunteering can be through manpower or resources. For disaster or calamity victims, we can provide immediate assistance/relief (food, shelter, bedding, and clothing to affected families); help clear debris, distribute supplies, and administer first aid; grief and psychological counseling to victims; facilitate emergency communications; extending condolences, support, and partnership in rebuilding efforts;

training communities in life-saving skills; providing community disaster education. It is also possible to have medical mission (hospital tie-up, doctor’s fellowship); soup kitchen; long term community development (livelihood and education programs i.e. recycling, computer skills); church placement and partnership with a local church for long term spiritual support; and reach out to new Chinese migrants. The possibilities are endless.

But Convergence’s initial focus will be in creating an efficient and robust community response in times of natural calamities. And as the system is further developed, it will branch out to help augment the needs for Education, Healthcare, Community Development, etc.

The program ended by posing a challenge to the participants. Church and individual response forms were handed out with a challenge for the church and individuals to set aside a year in making a social impact and responding to God’s command to reach out and love one another.

If and when Christian young professionals agree to serve hand in hand, we can create a ripple of volunteerism, practice what we preach, and be the light in this world.

Think of the magnitude of what we can do if we rally together to show that Christians care because God cares.

Love Out Loud

2nd Road Trip: Cagayan de Oro

by Allen Bruce Uy, Glory Evangelical Church

I have envisioned my Christmas vacation with my family to be a long and uninterrupted affair. This is why I was at first hesitant to drop by Cagayan de Oro before heading to Cotabato.

And when it comes to disaster response and relief operations, I have almost zero experience. In short, I am not an expert. I do not know what to do or say. But nevertheless, when God tells you what to do, all you need to do is trust and obey.

So on December 29, I went on a road trip to CDO to oversee and facilitate the delivery of accumulated relief items (water, kitchen utensils, slippers, shoes, blankets, toiletries and boxes of nails). These are purchased and donated items from the different Christian churches and fellow believers through the CCOWEF Care Caravan. The trip also gave me the chance to get in touch with the medical and debriefing mission teams from Manila and talk to our CDO contact, Elder Frances Uy. Together with my cousin, we started our long road trip towards CDO’s city proper. Passing by some unaffected areas, it was hard to imagine that a few days ago something happened which caused massive damage to properties and claimed thousands of lives. A disaster called by a government official as a “tsunami in reverse,” volumes of water and mud from the uplands to the sea.

I visited Macasandig, which is not far from the business district, one of the hardest hit areas. Along the way, visible signs of damage can already be seen – men trying to salvage usable items from their flattened houses; families cleaning their houses filled with thick mud; snakelike lines as people queued for their water supply; upended vehicles; broken bridges, missing people and debris. Electricity and water supply have not been fully restored. Taking a bath is in itself a luxury. Some areas had the look and feel of a ghost town.

Upon reaching the evacuation center, I saw hundreds of people staying in a small place. It was jam packed. Our medical team was stationed besides the evacuation center. con’t. on page 2

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Beyond Me

by Christine Huan (Bacolod Trinity Christian Church)

There are many rivers, creeks, and other waterways in Negros Oriental. When Typhoon Sendong made landfall on December 17, 2011, its incessant downpour for several hours was too much for the rivers, creeks, and other waterways to contain, therefore causing surprising and devastating flashfloods in Negros Oriental, especially in Dumaguete City, Siaton, Sibulan, Tanjay City, and Valencia.

Typhoon Sendong was the first storm that brought great damage to major areas of Negros Oriental since many years ago. As it was, 40 casualties were reported; 34 were injured and 6 are still missing until this time. A total of 12 areas, 2 cities and 10 municipalities were affected in Negros Oriental. A total of 16,575 households were flooded, and a total of 7,230 houses were affected, 1,409 completely destroyed and 5,821 partially damaged.

(Data taken from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Disaster Response Operations Monitoring and Information Center).

I went on an ocular inspection to Dumaguete City last December 29, 2011 representing the CCOWEF Care Caravan. I was working with the Dumaguete Christian Church members in the affected areas to assess their needs. Those families living near rivers, creeks, and other waterways were the most affected because majority of them easily lost their houses and even the lives of their loved ones. In the wake of such devastation, believers from across the Philippines are contributing to relief efforts through CCOWEF to deliver supplies that would help rebuild broken lives.

God used the Dumaguete trip to gradually change my thinking, my attitude, my priorities, and my over all perspective in life. I may not know why natural disaster occurs but I know with absolute certainty that this allows me to trust the Lord even in times of great suffering. He reserves the right to reveal some things and conceal others. He ordains or permits events for His good purpose. Though I cannot fully comprehend what God is doing in each incident, every disaster is a wake-up call for humanity. God is alerting us of the need to repent so the lost can be saved and the saved can be revived to live for Him. Catastrophes open our ears to hear from the Lord. The One who loves us perfectly is in full control, working everything out according to His good purpose. Knowing all these, I should be filled with hope even in the midst of crisis situations. The Lord even promises to turn disaster to good for those who “are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28).

As a CCOWEF leader, I have noticed that God trains me and helps me grow as He simultaneously grows our CCOWEF ministry. God has taught me that ministries are made up of imperfect people serving a perfect God, myself included. This means that we must trust God first and be careful and be prayerful on what we entrust to others along the journey. The Lord will often use our CCOWEF volunteers to challenge me to come up with a higher call of stewardship and maturity. For this, I have learned to thank God for building in me a repertoire of skills and attitude needed to keep me moving forward and lessons that I can then share with other emerging leaders. Rooted in love, we work purposefully for “He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.”

(Ephesians 4:6) Remembering a similar fearful experience at a young age, I know how it feels to be vulnerable and desperate for help. I cried out to God to keep me and my family safe from the raging storm and He did. This experience helped me to empathize with the victims and so I volunteered to visit Dumaguete and see how I can facilitate assistance through CCOWEF. I realized that God opens up for me multiple opportunities to serve Him in whatever capacity needed. Whatever I choose, I will continue to bear witness through lips and life, to the power of the providential hand of God. The situation is often beyond me but “God does not call the equipped, He equips the called.” If I am His, then I am called. Not because of who I am or what I can do, but because God is able to do His work through me.

Stories from

THE FLOOD

by Calvin Chu, United Evangelical Church of Balintawak

A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out. Isaiah 42:3a We read the news. We saw the pictures. We even knew the numbers – how many died, how many were missing, how much damage the flooding caused. To us, it was a devastating event. To the people of Cagayan de Oro, it was much more than that. With the support of CCOWEF CARE Caravan, a debriefing team headed by husband and wife Ptr. Johnny and Elaine Benjamin went to Cagayan de Oro to counsel the victims of typhoon Sendong.

What the team saw, smelled, heard, and felt were not even close to what the people of Cagayan de Oro experienced that night. A member of the debriefing team, Juanita de los Santos of Global Filipino Movement, shared with us some of the stories from the flood.

“We were like tarsiers.”

When my husband and I heard of the flood, we immediately brought our three kids to a higher place where we found some people taking refuge in a Mercury Store. We asked them to stay there until we come back and get them. We went back to our house thinking we could save some of our personal things but the flood was already getting higher. We rushed to the roof but after a while our house shook and was taken by the flood and stuck over one of the fences along Paseo del Rio. My husband and I were tossed by the current. We thought that will be our end. Fortunately, my husband reached a branch of a star-apple tree and pulled me up. We hang in there tightly as the current of the water was so strong. We were there until the rescue came. The whole night, we were like tarsiers clinging and hanging on the tree, bearing the bites of the ants.

When the flood subsided, we went back to Mercury Store and got our kids back. We thank God for saving the whole family. For the first time in our marriage, my husband asked me to go to church with our children and told me that we will go to church every Sunday.

“I just want to see my baby, dead or alive.”

Two days before the flood, my in-laws took our eldest child, a 5-year old girl, with them for a vacation. Their house was located in Brgy. Cala-Cala, a neighboring barangay greatly devastated by the flood. While my husband, our 3-year old youngest son and I were struggling to survive, my daughter with my in-laws were also fighting for their lives. While we were on the roof, tightly holding our trembling and terrified son, I didn’t know what was going on with our eldest child.

The following morning, my father-in law sadly informed us of what happened. The flood came so fast, reached the roof and the house gave way when the current became so strong.

He embraced our child very tightly as they were swayed and tossed by the flood. He tried to keep her but suddenly, a heavy wood fell and hit them. Surprised and terrified, he lost his hold on his grandchild and never saw her again.

My husband and I tried to look for her – among our relatives, in all evacuation centers, hospitals and even in the morgues of the funeral homes. There were times when my husband saw a dead girl and told me he found our girl. But upon checking, she was not our girl! We want to see our baby. We don’t know whether we will just accept that our girl is gone or we will hope that we’ll see her again sometime in the future. It’s very difficult. I always cry and think of her.

I can’t eat because every time I eat, I am thinking where she is now, how is she. I just want to see my baby, dead or alive. We want a closure so we could move on.

“We don’t know when our life would end so we should be forgiving.”

This is the second time our house was washed out by the flood. The first time was in 2009.

When we rebuilt it, we made sure our house is stronger. It had strong foundation to withstand the flood. We even put second floor thinking the flood will not reach it. But that was just wishful thinking because I was mistaken.

Typhoon Sendong cannot be underestimated. Heavy rainfall and strong winds resulted to flashfloods. Then big trees from the mountains of the surrounding provinces swept in and joined the flood. Worst, thick mud mixed in. I thought that this is it. This is our end. Although this was running across my mind, the will to survive and live was stronger.

There are two families in our house including my mother who is now old. We were not in talking terms due to some unresolved issues. While we were struggling to transfer from one roof to another, we talked again and asked forgiveness to one another. That’s the lesson I learned. Life is more valuable than material things and forgiveness is liberating. We don’t know when our life will end. Each day is a gift from God and we should forgive one another.

These stories are a reminder of the horrific experiences our fellow countrymen had. As we read them, I hope that it will move us to step up and do our share to alleviate the pain they experienced by our cheerful giving. Let’s continue to remember them in our prayers, that they will live pass this sad episode and may God’s healing touch and restore them.

from page 2 (2nd Road Trip: Cagayan de Oro)

I talked with some victims and learned of their horrific experiences and tales of survival. A disaster is really one of those great equalizers in a society. Whatever status you have in life – rich or poor, you will be affected.

As of 2pm of December 27, report from the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) states that nationwide death toll from the typhoon Sendong was already at 1,249 with 84 missing, 4,594 injured; 12,805 houses totally damaged and 29,520 partially damaged.

Life is indeed fleeting. No matter how hard we try to take control of our lives, we can’t. Only God controls everything. Therefore it is necessary that we put our hope and trust in the Lord, and not on temporal things which can be taken away in a snap. As Psalm 90:12 says, “Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”

Survival from the disaster is one thing but the process for recovery and rehabilitation will still take time. We hope that you will all continue to help without hesitation. By working together rather than individually, we can make a bigger impact in helping the people, and letting them know that Christians care because God cares.

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The Diary of a Rookie

by Leslie Sun, United Evangelical Church of Balintawak

For easy comprehension, the diary is written in one, firstperson voice. This is to avoid the shifting between “I” (Allen), “I” (Calvin) and “I” (Leslie) as we served the function of being external and internal operation heads in our recent CDO-IliganDumaguete relief operations, which we conducted under Care Caravan last December 18, 2011 to January 4, 2012. This is made possible through the partnership of our ministry’s generous donors. It is our desire to go straight to the heart of this endeavor as well as to share God’s goodness and faithfulness in providing for our every need and for teaching us valuable lessons in trusting His good heart and plan.

READY … (December 19-21, 2011) Unprepared was the best word to describe the condition of our team as we faced the prospect of ending the year not in Christmas frenzy, but in a stressful relief operation mode. I started this day in quandary because the Chairman of CCOWEF Philippines, Mr. Samson Su, told us to start soliciting financial assistance from the members, friends and supporters of CCOWEF Young Professionals so that our group can assist the victims of Typhoon Sendong that hit Cagayan de Oro. Although we had a soft launching of the “Care Caravan” ministry last November through the relief operation in Olongapo city for victims of Typhoon Quiel and Pedring (see article “Love out Loud”), I was distressed because the ministry exhausted all the goods we collected and the fund was down to only five digits figure. I surmised that it would be impossible to carry a relief operation with this minimal resource.

I wanted to get God’s clear directives as to our next step.

I prayed to God. True enough, He spoke to me through the following verses in Psalm 91:1-2,”Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; He is my God, and I trust him”. And in Psalms 37:56, “Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him, and He will help you. He will make your innocence radiate like the dawn, and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun”. God’s words seemed to pop straight out of the bible that I was reading. Powerful words. The key word was TRUST. To me this was operant. I need to rely on our God to be our best Helper. He is the ultimate source of safety and rest amidst the uncertainties.

Strengthened with God’s truth that I kept in my heart, I started to contact people and let them know of our fund raising.

Bashful from having to ask for monetary assistance to carry on this operation, I sent SMS to people that there was no compulsion. Any amount, big or small, would go a long way in making this operation reached its fruition. God had His plan laid out so well that almost all except for few persons replied positively to this call. Donations poured in steadily and within 3 days, our fund was up to six digits figure. We were now ready to start our relief operations to people in need.

SET… (December 22 to 25, 2011) We decided to send assistance through cash transfer to our contacts in Cagayan de Oro (Elder Frances Uy) and Dumaguete (Ptr. Andy Pecson). They assured us that enough goods were available for purchase in their locations and it saved us a considerable amount in freight cost. They had manpower

from their own local churches that helped in the distribution of the goods. We felt so relieved that the operations seemed to be moving smoothly even if it was done away from our headquarters.

I then received a call from a Christian counselor- friend who wanted to go to CDO to carry a debriefing mission.

She was in partnership with Compassion International. After deliberation with our team, I confirmed our willingness to fund a portion of the mission that aimed to help the victims overcome their traumatic experiences through counseling and to share the gospel to them as well. The debriefing team headed

by Ptr. Elaine Benjamin then booked their flight on December 26 to 30 and arranged for their accommodations.

A day after, in a casual conversation with Mrs. Helen Parco, a sister–in-Christ, I learned that she had previous experience in leading medical mission teams to help typhoon victims. She told me that she felt God wanted her to do her small share.

We then immediately set up the medical mission team in partnership with her colleagues from the Medical Ambassadors of the Philippines. They listed down the medicines they intend to purchase and she formed her team. They set their mission date on December 28 to 30.

As we continue to study and evaluate the ways in which we can immediately dispose the money we solicited, I checked my facebook account for updates. I read a status from a friend calling for assistance in her “Bless Iligan” campaign. Kaye Estoista’s mother resides in Iligan city, which was also hit by the flash flood. Kaye, along with her friends, started doing their charity work in order to assist the Iligan victims. I felt that God wanted us to share our blessings to this group too.

So I informed her that we have ample goods, which she can include in the relief packs they were preparing for dispatch. We gave them 57 boxes of food, old clothes, and toiletries along with three-sack load of new clothing as they requested. Kaye personally went to the affected areas for accurate assessment of the situation.

GO… (December 26 to 30, 2011) Funds were released for the purchase of medicines to be brought to CDO. We have requested assistance from Drug Makers Laboratories Inc. and Latriel Corporation to give us discounted prices for our medical supplies. We purchased a wide range of medicines such as broad-spectrum antibiotics, cough and colds medicines and some topical ointment/cream to serve the need of the sick people. We also started the packing and sorting process as goods donated by various churches started to pour in. From our funds, we purchased new clothing items as requested by our contacts. We bought blankets and mats as well. They were all packed and readied for dispatch.

Reports from our medical team were amazing. When they checked in their cargoes, it exceeded the 9 passengers’ allowable weights, but God was so good, after explaining to airport authorities of our mission, they apportioned the excess weights to other unknown passengers and escorted our group to the boarding area. Thus we did not pay a single peso for the extra weight of our cargoes. We were blessed to note also that during our medical operation, our medical supplies were abundant that even other charitable groups requested medicines from us. We served as their “drugstore”. The Department of Health and the local government assisted us during our operation.

We were assigned to stay in a spacious and air-conditioned room compared to the make shift tents used by other medical teams. They assigned soldiers to marshal us in the duration of our service. The local network ABSCBN caught our operation and even asked us to go to the Muslim area to minister but due to lack of male personnel in our medical team and for safety purposes, we opted to stay in the evacuation area as well as in the neighboring barangays to minister. There were a total of 911 patients treated based on doctor’s prescription receipts during our 3-day stint in CDO. All the remaining medicines were endorsed properly to our contacts in CDO for their future usage. Our medical team totaled to 9 personnel including 2 doctors, 4 nurses and 3 medical staffs.

Regarding goods supplied to CDO, we asked assistance from our Davao contact to purchase supplies needed. Reports came in that food were in abundance so we opted to move to the next level by purchasing toiletries, kitchen utensils, undergarments and potable water that can fit a ten-wheeler truck. Through the help of our contacts, the truck made a 7-10 hours land trip to CDO from Davao city. It was then endorsed for safekeeping under the supervision of Elder Frances Uy. As for Dumaguete city, we were able to send off 123 boxes of food, old clothes and toiletries via South Sea forwarding service last January 4. Freight cost was billed collect courtesy of the Dumaguete Christian Church.

We temporarily wrapped up our relief operations last January 4, 2011. There is an abundance of food supplies in CDO and Dumaguete. Many NGOs have come in and did their share in the relief efforts. We are moving on to the next phase, which is the recovery and reconstruction phase. Future plans include assistance in the reconstruction of damaged local church buildings and the supply of basic ministerial equipment.

After the New Year, we received 72 boxes of Visayan bibles and other related teaching materials donated to us through Mr. Christian Nua. Likewise, we build our stock inventory with ample goods ready for usage in any unforeseen calamity.

On hindsight, we rookies in handling relief operations are grateful to God for being true to His promises. We trusted Him and stepped out in obedience to do His work. We were never lacking at any point during the entire operation. In fact, when we started it was at ground zero, with low financial standing and no inventory of relief goods. But God touched the hearts of many generous donors that by January 2012 the donations added up close to a 7 digit figure. God allowed us to establish debriefing and medical missions on such short notice and His protection was evident in the duration of their missions.

It humbles us to think that He used us to serve His purpose and agenda in reaching more people with His love. We were ill equipped to manage the operations simultaneously in three different provinces, but God supplied us with the hands and feet of people who were knowledgeable in order to carry the service required in our relief operations.

Indeed, our God made everything beautiful in accordance to His grand plan. No mistake about it, He is able to make beauty from the ashes. He orchestrated the Care Caravan ministry to be established at the right time so that others may see and feel God’s love so much closer to them especially during times of difficulties. God has again proven Himself to be our all-sufficient God .The ultimate source of hope for the hopeless and the Comforter of the bereaved.

CARE Caravan’s Strategic Structure:

Coordinating Council

C.A.R.E.(Christians Aspiring to Reach out and Empower,) Caravan, was formed after a meeting of various church leaders held last August 2011 during the gathering entitled Convergence, a CCOWEF Philippines sanctioned event.

Convergence, or coming together, aims to form a coordinated and extensive network of believers with the mission of reaching out to the less privileged sector of society by providing various assistance such as relief operations, medical missions, community development, value formation, life coaching and Gospel sharing. Convergence will provide a venue for believers to walk the talk by exercising charity through giving.

It also raises a call for every believer that together, the body of Christ can do more, making a bigger impact for the kingdom of God. Hence, on November 2011, CARE Caravan was formed to bring this vision into reality.

As the Caravan started its journey, the CARE Caravan Coordinating Council (CCCC) was framed to provide a more systematic approach to relief collection , distribution and formation of future community projects. Functioning under the CCOWEF Young

Professionals Philippinesumbrella, the council presently has the following positions to ease its operation : 1. Internal Operations Head- oversees the logistics,procurement and financial aspect of the operation.

2. External Operations Head -coordinates with local churches, individual donors, and volunteers, and various NGO’s. forbetter efficiency in doing relief efforts.

3. Regional Division Head(s)–the country is divided into 3 islands, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. We assigned persons to coordinate actions with in their respective areas.

This decentralization aims on hastening any form of operation especially if affected area is far from the headquarter.

Through CARE Caravan, with the support of the Filipino-Chinese Christian Community, and by the grace of God, we will shine a brighter light, influencing a larger number of lives, reaching more for the glory of God.

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DONOR POWER: THE BLESSING OF PARTNERSHIP By: Jessica Chen (CBCP) We live in a country wherein 20 or more typhoons come and go each year, and more often than not, massive flooding, landslides, death of humans and animals, destruction of agricultural resources, public structures and private properties follows.

In these times of natural calamities, despair and hardship, we, as Christians, are called to be givers of whatever talent or gifts that we possess to our less privileged brothers and sisters and fellowmen who are victims of such natural calamities. As the apostle Paul says in Romans 12:6-8, “We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.”

He also says in 2Corinthians 9:7, “Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

Why is it that the Lord says in Acts 20:35 that “It is more blessed to give than to receive?” It is because we cannot give what we do not possess. And when we give, it means we have more than enough to spare. In short, we are blessed by God with more than enough for our own needs.

Therefore, we are able to give. Sharing God’s grace and His blessings is a sign of good stewardship. It may be through giving gospel tracts, bibles, donating a certain amount of money, old clothes or things that we no longer use or need; doing volunteer work by using our skills to aid people in their suffering, or simply giving a part of our time in preparing, packing, supervising, coordinating, purchasing the relief goods and transporting them to the affected areas. When we give, we are glorifying God’s name and testifying to His goodness to our fellowmen.

By giving, we are the ones who are blessed in return. For the Lord says in Luke 6:38, “Give, and it will be given you.

A good measure, pressed down together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”

The Lord also says in Proverbs 28:27 that “He who gives to the poor will lack nothing, but he who closes his eyes to them receives many curses.”

May we heed God’s Word and be not only hearers of His Word but doers as well. We are all recipients of His abundant grace. May His grace flow through us so that others will know Christ and experience His love. And when our Lord Jesus returns, may He find us faithful and call us “My good and faithful servant.

About Charitable Clothing Donations A charitable clothing donation is a great way to help those less fortunate and to help nonprofit organizations continue their good works and programs. Charitable organizations use donated clothing in various ways. It may be sold, with proceeds benefiting the organization and its programs. Other organizations give the clothes directly to low-income or homeless clients. Whatever its final end, your donation will go to help a community in need.

Donation Standards There is a general standard when donating clothing. Donations should be clean and undamaged. Clothes with stains or tears are often turned away. Empty your pockets before donating clothes, to make sure you have all your valuables and personal items.

Contact the charity beforehand to find out if there is a specific way to package the donation, whether in a box, in a bag or on hangers. (Taken from eHOW) Safely sorting donated items Step 1: Preparation Make sure you have suitable glovesEnsure the sorting table is clear.

Step 2: Initial Sort Be careful, don’t thrust your hand into sacks or boxes.

Empty the contents out onto the table Check the pile for sharp, broken or soiled items.

If you find any of these items dispose of them carefully by wrapping in newspaper etc.

Step 3: Second Sort Sort the remaining stock as normal Do no overfill rubbish or rag sacks (copied from ATTEND web page.)

Mission C.D.O. Helen Sun Parco, CCF St. Francis The date was 12.16.2011. The typhoon struck suddenly without warning, displacing hundreds of thousands of people and making them homeless. Flooding engulfed the city and the surrounding areas, making innumerable children orphans overnight.

This is the story of a city ravaged by a killer storm – the story of Cagayan de Oro after Sendong.

As I watched the horrific images of people buried alive and of severely damaged infrastructures, I was reminded of a similar tragedy that happened during the Christmas season of 2004. After being hit by two almost simultaneous typhoons, the town of Dingalan in Aurora province (where we regularly do mission work) was almost entirely wiped out, while all of the churches there suffered tremendously.

One church even had all of its members killed.

Reminiscing about how God used us to fulfill his mission during that time, God spoke to me again to go help the people of Cagayan de Oro and extend whatever assistance I can provide. After praying, God immediately led me to individuals similarly moved with compassion to help.

Following efforts to gather about a dozen individuals, our team - now comprised of missionaries, doctors, nurses, as well as medical students - was ready to take off!

Just as we set foot at the airport, we immediately felt God’s presence envelope us. Despite having an excess baggage of 161 kilos (21 boxes of medicine) that would amount to a fee of PhP 27,000.00, we were suddenly exempted from paying the said fee – and not only that, the airport director made sure that we and the medicines made it safely to Cagayan De Oro. Throughout our three-day stay, we were able to serve a total of 911 patients in two barangays and four evacuation centers. We worked hand-in-hand with the City Government through the Department of Health as well as with the local Christian churches. Likewise, being concordant to the Great Commission, we also had evangelism outreaches, where we shared the Word of God and distributed tracts to the unbelievers.

The team also helped in providing much-needed counseling to those who were emotionally traumatized by the typhoon.

God also impressed on me to help our Christian brethren. I visited Christian churches and subsequently found out that many were heavily damaged. The hymnals were soggy and could not be read anymore, the pews and musical instruments were totally wrecked beyond repair, and many even had their walls and roofs torn down. Services were put on hold, as many of the churches were still left damaged. The local Christians had their hope dampened, especially since the typhoon occurred during Christmas season.

After having first-hand view of what really happened, it dawned upon me that the people not only lost their possessions, but for many, even family members, leading them to develop intense anxiety and fear. Days after our trip, we have heard disturbing news such as the increasing incidence of nervous breakdowns. Some were even so distraught so as to take their own lives. Being believers, let us help restore back their lost hope and faith through our Lord Jesus Christ, especially by remembering them in our prayers.

As I write this piece, I am still keeping in touch with the pastors of Cagayan de Oro who are in dire need of financial help to help them repair and rebuilt their churches. In so doing, we can empower the local churches to take charge of the efforts in rebuilding broken lives.

In bringing into fruition this project, I would like to thank Care Caravan of C.C.O.W.E. Young Professionals who provided financial support, the Medical Ambassadors of the Philippines for their benevolence in providing medical assistance, brother Simon and sister Terry Ching of Good News Travelers’ Inn for accommodating us during our stay, and other anonymous brothers and sisters who supported us through prayers as well as additional financial support.

5

Are We Disaster Ready?

Rhea Bless O. Lerado, Glory Evangelical Church

Without warning, earthquakes can happen suddenly and violently. While modern buildings have incorporated science and technology to prevent it from total collapse the more serious concern is the secondary hazard that arises during and after the quake – it can range from fire, gas leaks, broken pipes and power lines, falling heavy furniture, jammed exit doors, etc. Identifying the hazards ahead of time and being prepared can help lessen loss of life or serious injury. Be also wary of aftershocks as these pose potential danger.

A certain level of preparedness in times of disaster allows people to have better control over loss. Our country is no stranger to calamities but more often we are caught ill-prepared and responses by private and government agencies are inadequate. We need to move away from being reactionary (relief and response) to being proactive. Let’s make disaster preparedness as a way of life.

This means that we try to decrease our vulnerability to disaster and increase our capability for recovery. This cannot be done overnight and will need an integrated, coordinated effort within the community and the country – proper land-use planning, infrastructure, information dissemination, etc. Impact of disasters are heavily felt by developing and underdeveloped countries especially the marginalized sector.

PAG-ASA in its 2020 and 2050 climate projection said that “The dry season would be drier and the wet season would be wetter, and the damage to crops and water sources would be far-reaching.” Clearly, the country has a long way to go but it is not solely the government’s responsibility. Everybody is equally responsible for disaster preparedness, mitigation, response and rehabilitation activities.

While the government has enacted several laws, decrees and directives on disaster preparedness (R.A. 10121 or the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010; the 18-year National Climate Change Action Plan; DepEd Order No. 83 s. 2011 also known as the Disaster Preparedness Measures for Schools), it needs the support of the people.

How many wake-up calls do we need before we really learn our lesson?

What to do before and during an earthquake • Identify safe indoor and outdoor places for shelter. Pay close attention to safe places close to your normal work space and home.

• Prepare an emergency and first aid kit .

• Bolt tall furniture/cabinets to prevent toppling. Move heavy objects from top of cabinets and store them at the bottom shelves.

• Remain CALM. Be aware that some earthquakes are actually foreshocks and a larger earthquake might occur. Minimize your movements to a few steps to a nearby safe place and if indoors stay inside until the shaking has stopped and you are sure exiting is safe. Do not rush to exits. You are advised to stay put for further instruction from the emergency rescue team (e.g. floor warden, fire brigade etc.) unless the situation is life threatening – evacuate immediately.

Know the Risks

Though consequences of different calamities and disasters can be similar, knowing the risks can help you prepare better.

The first 72 hours is crucial. Electricity, water and communication lines may still be down.

Rescue teams might not have reached your place. One should be self-reliant for at least three days after a disaster.

Be familiar with local hazards in your area.

Try visiting this website http://nababaha.com/ , this is a hazard map that shows the flooded areas and the trace of the West Valley fault line.

Scroll the map to the exact location of your home in relation to the flooded areas and the fault line.

Being prepared can reduce anxiety, fear, losses that accompany disasters. It can also reduce the impact of a disaster or one can sometimes completely avoid the danger.

Make a Plan

Have an emergency plan. It will help you and your family know what to do in case of emergency. When an emergency occurs, you may not be together with your family. Plan how to meet/ contact each other and discuss what to do in different situations.

Be friends with your neighbors. Help may just be a holler away.

Make copies of important documents (birth & marriage certificates, passports, licenses, deeds and insurance, medical record, etc.)

Prepare laminated ID card for family member(s) with special concerns and children who cannot speak. Indicate name, address, phone, who to call in case of emergency, contact details, the condition of the bearer and special instructions on what to do in case seen unconscious (e.g. diabetic) or in case reported as missing.

Get a Kit

Basic Emergency Kit good for the first 72 hours : • Water (at least 2 liters per person per day; include small bottles that can be carried easily in case of evacuation order) • Water purification supplies (1 tablet can purify 1 liter of water) • Food that won’t spoil (easy to open canned food, dried fruit, crackers, cereals, etc.)

• Manual can-opener • Wind-up or battery-powered flashlight (and extra batteries) • Wind-up or battery-powered radio (and extra batteries) to monitor the news for any possible threats and weather condition.

• Whistle or any gadget that can attract attention • Make sure that your phone is always fully charged. If possible, have an extra battery.

Earthquakes Safety Tips

• • •

• •

• • • • •

In severe situation, use one phone at a time to avoid running out of battery.

Thin, easy to carry and warm blanket Multi-purpose knife Matches or lighter and candles. Do not use until you are certain that there are no gas leaks. Take additional precaution by using fire-proof candle holders and putting them over flammable / combustible surface.

First aid kit (bandage, antiseptic, medical tape, scissors, etc.)

If applicable, other items such as prescription medication, infant formula, equipment for people with disabilities, or food, water and medication for your pets or service animal (personalize according to your needs) Hygiene Kit (extra clothing, undergarments, toiletries) Extra keys to your car and house Some cash in smaller bills Copy of your emergency plan and contact information In case you need to walk through rubble, debris or flooded areas wear sturdy, waterproof shoes.

When Disaster Strikes

STOP what you are doing.

LOOK around and assess the situation. LISTEN for instructions and updates by tuning to a radio news source. Stay calm. Being prepared will help ease our anxiety and gives us the chance to react calmly to a situation.

Filipinos are known for being resilient.

However, we are also known for having short term memories. Let us learn to build a culture of safety and learn from our mistakes.

While we do not know when disaster will strike, it is necessary that we are prepared at all times be it mentally, physically but most especially spiritually. Let me ask you, do you know for sure that you are going to be with God in heaven someday? And if He were to ask you, why would I let you into my heaven? How will you answer? If you are not sure or you do not know, seize this moment to know for sure. Ask your church leaders.

(Sources: Red Cross, NDRRMC, PAG-ASA, DepEd, various disaster management system i.e. Hyogo Framework, 72hours.org, etc.)

If indoors • DROP to the ground; take COVER by getting under a sturdy table or other piece of furniture; and HOLD ON until shaking stops.

• If caught in the hallway where there is neither table or any form of cover available, brace yourself against an inner or corner wall or sit/crouch against a column then cover your face and head with your arms.

• Look around, above and see what can hurt you and what can save you from injury.

• Keep away from objects hanging overhead and watch out for falling plaster, ceiling tiles or aircon or light diffusers.

• Stay away from glass doors/windows/walls/mirrors, hanging objects, heavy furniture and equipment and other falling, tumbling, breaking or sliding hazards.

• Use a doorway for shelter only if it is in close proximity to you and if you know it is a strongly supported, load bearing doorway.

• Stay inside until shaking stops and it is safe to go outside. Research shows that injuries often occur when people inside buildings attempt to move to a different location or try to leave.

• Be aware that the electricity may go out or the sprinkler systems or fire alarms may turn on.

• DO NOT use the elevators. If you’re inside one, step out at the first stop when the elevator door opens, but never force yourself out if the door is only partially open or if it is widely out of level with the floor landing.

• Be prepared to evacuate.

• Advise the closest rescue team (e.g. security person, floor warden, fire brigade etc.) of any person who is injured, or locations where there are fires, exposed power lines, broken glass, or other obvious hazards.

If outdoors • Stay in an open place.

• Move away from buildings, trees, streetlights, telephone and electrical poles, overpasses or elevated expressways, fences and utility wires.

• Look out for falling, flying objects.

• Once in the open, stay there until the shaking stops. Greatest danger exists directly outside buildings, at exits, and alongside exterior walls. Injuries and fatalities happen when people run outside the buildings only to be hit by falling debris or collapsing walls.

If in a moving vehicle • Stop as quickly as safety permits and stay in the vehicle. Avoid stopping near or under buildings, trees, overpasses, and utility wires.

• Proceed cautiously once the earthquake has stopped. Avoid roads, bridges, or ramps that might have been damaged by the earthquake.

If trapped under debris • Do not light a match.

• Do not move about or kick up dust.

• Cover your mouth with a handkerchief or clothing or dust mask (if available) • Tap on a pipe or wall so rescuers can locate you. Use a whistle if one is available.

Shout only as a last resort. Shouting can cause you to inhale dangerous amounts of dust.

Sources : Red Cross, NDRRMC Memos and handbook, Department of Homeland Security, Government Agencies, Disaster Management Council, etc.

Fast Facts • An average of 20 tropical cyclones hit the Philippines every year.

• Ground movement during an earthquake is seldom the direct cause of death or injury. Most earthquake related casualties result from collapsing walls, flying glass, and falling objects.

• One can survive without food intake for 5 days as long as there is water intake.

• Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.

• Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possibly stalling.

• A foot of water will float many vehicles.

• Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including SUV’s and pick-ups.

• In case of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), do not use gum or mint, canned juice or hard sweet candies are recommended.

6

Flood Safety Rules Before the flood

manholes. However, be wary of vehicles. Never walk out in the open during a thunderstorm.

7. If driving, be aware that the road may not be intact under flood waters. Turn around and move to higher grounds when caught by rising waters. NEVER attempt to drive through deep flooded roadways and areas of strong current flow.

8. If your vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground. Do not attempt to move it. Rapidly rising water may engulf the vehicle and its occupants and sweep them away.

9. During power disruption, avoid using candles and other forms of unprotected open flames for lighting.

Use precautionary measures to avoid fire hazards.

10. Check for leaks in your roofs and ceilings. Do not brave the storm to attempt to personally repair leaks.

11. If flood water reaches inside your home, shut down the general switch if there is a danger that the water will reach your wall power outlets.

12. Keep monitoring PAGASA weather updates on radio or television for information.

1. Be familiar with local flood areas and dams. Know if floodwaters might affect your home and property.

Know the community evacuation routes and shelters.

2. If residing in a flood prone area, invest on life vests, floaters and other safety gadgets, especially if you have young children. Have rubber or water proof suits, rubber boots available for use if you need to cross or wade on flooded waters and sandbags for blocking or redirecting flow of water.

3. If flood waters usually reach your home, relocate your things to upper floors as early as the first announcement of the impending storm. Install rubber guards on your doors and window sills to prevent or delay seepage of flood and rain water.

4. Identify safe routes from your home or work place to high, safe ground. Determine whether you can use these routes during flooding or storms.

5. Get in touch with your insurance agent to discuss flood insurance coverage.

6. Assemble a stock of food that requires no cooking or refrigeration; electric and gas services may be interrupted.

7. Designate an evacuation area for the family. Assign instructions and responsibilities to family members.

8. Keep an emergency supply kit handy – battery operated radio and flashlight with spare batteries, rope, plastic sheets, emergency cooking equipment, matches, and first-aid kit in case of emergency.

9. Strengthen weak dwellings and secure items. You might need GI sheets, plywood and lumber for boarding up glass windows and walls.

10. Keep your car fueled. Electrical power outages might make gasoline pumps inoperable. Check your car batteries and reserved tires.

11. Ensure that your cell phones are fully charged (include spare battery) just in case electrical power is cut off during the storm.

12. Have enough cash on hand.

13. Learn to swim. It could save lives. It shouldn’t just be optional.

14. If you need to relocate, lock your home and move to a safe area before flood waters cut-off access.

Turn off electric circuit from the general switch box and shut off the main water and gas valves before evacuating.

15. Regularly monitor the weather updates over the radio or television. If advised to evacuate your area, do so immediately. Do not take chances.

16. Be especially cautious at night when it is more difficult to recognize flood dangers.

After the flood

2. If you’re already caught off guard; and flood is already on the streets, don’t leave the safety of the office, school or any building you’re in if they’re in higher ground already. Wait for flood waters to subside.

3. Avoid unnecessary trips. Stay in the safety of your homes. Never allow your children to play or bath under the rain or in your pools during the storm.

4. When travelling is unavoidable, bring along a pair of rain boots in your car, flashlight or lantern and raincoats. Avoid areas prone to flooding. Stay away from roads under construction.

5. If caught by the storm in the office or after leaving the home or office, do not force yourself to drive through very strong rains and wind. Find a covered parking lot preferably multi-level garages and stay on the higher level until the rain and wind subsides. When no covered parking lot is available, look for high ground and park beside a building away from the wind direction. Do not park beside electrical posts, trees, billboards, movable traffic signs, or construction areas or junk yards.

6. Do not walk on flooded streets. Look for higher grounds. If forced to walk, stay near the middle of the road to avoid open canals, sewer drains and/or

During the flood

1. Avoid areas subject to sudden flooding.

Philippine National Police 117 (Life threatening and Emergency Response. Service is available nationwide) Non-Emergency Police Response Via Short Text Messaging Service (SMS) Type: PNP (space) (message) then send to 2920 PNP National Headquarters Trunkline Connecting all Departments Dial (632) 723-0401 to 20 Dial (632) 72531-79 / (632) 721-8544 PNP EOD / Phil.

Bomb Data Center Department Of Interior and Local Government (DILG) – Public Assistance Center 925-0343 925-1135 / 925-0366 National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) 911-1406 / 911-1873 / 911-1906 / 911-5061 / 912-0984 912-2665 / 912-3046 / 912-5296 / 912-5668 Help Hotlines: 734-2118 / 734-2120 Bureau of Fire Protection, National Capital Region 729-5166 / 410-6254 / 413-8859 / 407-1230 Bureau of Fire Protection, Region III (Central Luzon) (045) 9634376 Philippine Coast Guard 527-8481 loc. 6136 / 6290 / 6292 Philippine National Red Cross 143 527-0000 / 527-0856

Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) 136 882-4151 to 77 / 896-6000 / 882-0860 MERALCO 16220 / 16211 DZBB Super Radyo 924-3022 / 924-3018 982-7777 loc 9404 Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAG-ASA) 433-8526 Manila Water Company, Inc. 1627 Department Of Education (DEPED) Central Office : 632-1361 to 71 Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)

Trunkline : 931-8101 to 07

National Resource Operations Center (NROC) 852-8081 Disaster Relief Operations, Monitoring and Information Center (DROMIC) 488-3199 / 931-8101 to 05 loc. 506 / 951-7119

Crisis Intervention Unit (CIU) 734-8635 Armed Forces of the Philippines 911-6001 Department Of Health (DOH) 651-7800 Department of National Defense 911-6001 to 20 / 911-6193 Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 24/7 Hotline : 165-02

1. Re-enter the dwellings with caution using flashlights, not lanterns or torches. Flammables may be inside.

2. Be alert for fire hazards like broken wires.

3. Do not eat food and drink water until they have been checked for flood water contamination.

4. Report broken utility lines (electricity, water, gas and telephone) to appropriate agencies authorities.

5. Do not turn on the main switch or use appliances and other equipment until they have been checked by a competent electrician.

6. Consult health authorities for immunization requirements.

7. Do not go in disaster areas. Your presence might hamper rescue and other emergency operations.

8. If you have flood insurance, contact your agent that you have a loss.

9. Tune in to local radio and television for advice on where to obtain medical care and other assistance.

10. Do not enter structures if floodwaters have covered the first floor. Seek expert advice to determine if the building is safe to enter.

11. Use battery-powered lanterns or flashlights (not oil or gas lanterns); if the building may have a gas leak, do not use any kind of light.

12. Do not turn on the general switch if your home has been flooded and/or if water is still present inside the house. Use rubber boots to avoid accidental electrocution, in case you forget to turn off the general switch and power is suddenly restored.

13. Hire the services of qualified electrician to inspect and dry all electrical outlets and electrical cables and appliances that had come in contact with the flood water. Better relocate the outlets to higher levels (if practical or doable).

14. Check the quality of water coming from the faucets.

During the first few days, drink only boiled or purified water. Do not use water left in open containers for cooking or bathing.

15. After cleaning your homes with water and soap, use disinfectant.

16. When cleaning the yard of fallen trees or branches inspect first for downed electrical lines and report to the Power Utility Company. Do not attempt to personally clear or disentangle the lines from the trees.

17. If you have evacuated your homes, do not bring back small children until your house has been fully cleaned, disinfected, dried and electrical connections checked.

Things we can do to prevent floods

1. Regulate tree cutting. Report illegal loggers and kaingeros and illegal construction of establishments in waterways.

2. Do not throw garbage in esteros and rivers.

3. Help clean the neighborhood.

4. Support community activities intended to lessen the occurrence of floods.

5. Avoid throwing anything like plastic wrappers anywhere which may clog or block the drainage system.

Sources : Red Cross, NDRRMC Memos and handbook, Department of Homeland Security, Government Agencies, Disaster Management Council, etc.

ROVING PATROL DESTINATION : CAGAYAN DE ORO & ILIGAN

YOU made the difference, Thank You So Much !

With hundreds of boxes and sacks of goods that were sent to the CCOWEF office in Quezon City, most of which are used clothes, it will take people with extra diligence to sort it out one item at a time and repack them. And so God provided LilibethOng, with the help of PacitaOng, and Lourdes Barretto in tagging,who gave up their holiday break by sorting through the piles of dusty boxes in time for it to be delivered to those in need.

Typhoons ravage houses, farms, and roads. It also brings about unsanitary conditions that can result in high incidence of disease outbreaks. With the amount that God has provided through kind hearted people, CARE Caravan was able to support a medical team from Medical Ambassadors of the Philippines,in coordination with Helen Parco, with their airfare as well as for the purchasing of medicines to be used for the medical mission. And a fact often overlooked is that a calamity such as this also breaks the spirit. God opened the way for CARE Caravan to help with the airfare of the debriefing team under the coordination of Ptr Johnny and Elaine Benjamin. We would like to thank the churches that contributed greatly for the Lord’s work through monetary assistance – Caloocan Chinese Baptist Church, Christian Gospel Center (CGC) Caloocan, CGC Iloilo, CGC QC, Glory Evangelical Church, Quezon City Evangelical Church, and United Evangelical Church of Balintawak.

To the number of people whom God has moved to bless others, our sincerest gratitude and appreciation. Through your donations, the offering of your time and effort, thousands of people got to experience God’s love in action. Your names might not be written in bold letters in front of newspapers, but our Father in heaven who sees everything, will surely bless you in return. A hundred peso donation might not seem much. But once we give it for God’s use, He will multiply it in ways we never thought a hundred peso could do. A hundred peso can help bring hope to a broken spirit. Together, thousands more can experience the same. By God’s grace and for His glory, we can do more together

DUMAGUETE

DEBRIEFING TEAM

PACKING

MEDICAL TEAM

Next Step : CDO Churches’ Rehabilitation