In a show of solidarity, the Filipino-Australian community and a number of multicultural community organisations, small businesses and a church based in Sydney and Young NSW launched their appeal for cash assistance for the survivors of Typhoon Rai (Odette).
Kapit-bahayan Cooperative Ltd and Members – $1015; Young and Districts Multicultural Association Inc – $765; NARRA Cooperative Ltd = $430; Alliance of Philippine Community Organisations Inc – $395; Auburn Small Community Organisation Network (ASCON) Inc – $300; Multicultural Assistance Task Force – $300; The Devotees of Sto Nino Association of Sydney = $260; Grace Church – $200; St Louis University Alumni Association Australia – $170; Filipiniana Dance Group =$100; Fil-Oz Liverpool and Districts= $100; Astola Pty Ltd – $100; Priscilla Siason – $100; Villoni Dobse Pty Ltd – $50; Honey Wong – $50 ; TOTAL = $4,500
In a report prepared by Dr Cen Amores, current President of the Auburn Small Community Organisation Network (ASCON) Inc and Chairperson of the Multicultural Assistance Task Force, a total of $4335 was raised as of the middle of January 2022 through the combined efforts of the following:
The cash assistance was sent to the survivors of Typhoon Rai (Odette) in Cebu, Davao, Caubian Island of Lapu Lapu City, Palawan and Surigao. Meanwhile, the 2nd wave of donations comprising boxes of assorted non-perishable goods are being prepared for shipment by the end of January, to supplement the cash donations sent earlier.
When asked why Dr Cen never stops initiating humanitarian activities especially in times of crises, she simply said,” While still able, I will keep on doing what I love doing because helping people in need is a privilege, not a burden”.