Central Philippines: Word was received on April 7th, of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) being signed between Nazarene Disaster Response (NDR) and Humanitarian Assistance Network for Disaster (HAND), a Christian Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) based in Singapore.

The MOU, details the oversight of P2,000,000.00 (approximately $45,000 USD) in building supplies and materials to be utilized in the rebuilding of shelters for some 400 families (Nazarenes and non-Nazarenes) throughout three villages around the town of Dulag, province of Leyte, Central Philippines.

Work being done at Dulag Church of the Nazarene.

The materials, which have already been purchased, will be transported via ferry from Cebu City to Leyte, with their arrival scheduled for the morning of April 14th.  The Dulag Church of the Nazarene will serve as the staging and distribution center.

“Through this partnership, HAND is saying that they believe in what NDR is doing and they are as a consequence, entrusting into [NDR’s] care the stewardship of the resources they have to offer,” said Mark Louw, Asia-Pacific Regional Director

The rebuilding of churches in Eastern Samar and houses in Panay are still ongoing.  Eleven fishing boats are in the process of being constructed at APNTS (see video story).  These projects have been funded by donations given through Nazarene Compassionate Ministries (NCM).

We continue to praise God for the involvement of individuals and churches around the globe who have partnered in the recovery efforts through the giving to Nazarene Compassionate Ministries,  going in person as a part of work teams, and for continuing to pray.   This has truly been a tangible expression of God’s love!

Check back as in the days ahead, we will be featuring photos and footage of the delivery and distribution of the relief supplies.