Jamie Hsu, chair of the Michigan Asian Pacific American Affairs Commission (MAPAAC),

Jamie Hsu, chair of the Michigan Asian Pacific American Affairs Commission (MAPAAC), today issued the following statement on Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines:

“The devastating super typhoon Haiyan ravaged the central Philippines last Friday. As rescue workers struggle to reach survivors, news of the immense damage and loss of life is gradually coming to light. The death toll is estimated to exceed 10,000 people, over 630,000 have been forced from their homes, and more than 9.5 million have been affected. The members of the Michigan Asian Pacific American Affairs Commission wish to express our condolences and extend our prayers to the victims of this disaster and to the families of those who have been affected.

The relief effort is underway, but aid agencies must contend with the complicated logistics of getting people and aid out to the affected areas. The disruption and damage to ports and airports and the inaccessibility of roads is making the effort extremely difficult. We encourage you to support relief efforts in any way you feel appropriate. Please note that when disasters like this occur, the victims are helped most by financial contributions to aid agencies rather than donations of consumer goods.

MAPAAC has compiled a list of agencies involved in the disaster relief efforts in the Philippines. Please share this information with your contacts and networks, and please consider making a charitable donation today.”

To contribute to the American Red Cross, visit www.redcross.org or call 1-800-helpnow.
Catholic Relief Services is accepting donations on its website as it deploys staff and supplies.
World Vision is providing food and water to evacuation shelters; donate at www.worldvision.org.
Doctors Without Borders is dispatching medical teams to impacted areas. Visit www.doctorswithoutborders.org to contribute.
To donate to International Aid, visit www.internationalaid.org and click ‘donate now’.
International Rescue Committee accepts donations at www.rescue.org
Oxfam America is deploying clean water and sanitation materials to the region. Donate to Oxfam America here.
Donate $10 to The Salvation Army by texting ‘ TYPHOON’ to 80888.
World Food Program USA is providing emergency food assistance. Click here to donate.

MAPAAC was established to advance the full and equal participation of Asian and Pacific Americans in the building of a greater Michigan. The Commission, made up of 21 individuals appointed by the Governor, advises the Governor and state legislature on policy matters and serves Michigan’s Asian and Pacific American population by promoting their development and welfare and recognizing their achievements. Each member of the Commission has a specific interest or expertise in Asian or Pacific American concerns.

To learn more about MAPAAC, please visit the Michigan Department of Civil Rights website and click on “Other Commissions”.