This is an off-topic post, but very important to get the word out there. You may have already seen it on the news, but for those who have not, here’s the short version:

Tropical storm Ketsana hit the Philippines on Saturday and dumped a month’s worth of rainfall within a matter of 12 hours. People’s homes are underwater, cars are submerged, death toll is currently at 83. Civilians quickly mobilized for rescue with the help of social media sites such as Twitter and Facebook. At this moment, however, relief goods are running out. More storms are brewing on the horizon.

Please help.

There are many ways to donate to the Philippine Red Cross.

You can also call the American Red Cross to help: 1-800-435-7669 – Please make sure you let them know you want your donation to go to the Philippines.

New Yorkers, there is a relief center at 40-21 69th St. Woodside, New York 11377. Donations of canned food, clothing and bottled water will go a long way to help.

Paypal donations would also be appreciated.

So many poor people have nowhere else to turn, nothing to eat and nothing to wear. Even rich people had to leave everything they own, check into hotels with only their loved ones and consider themselves lucky because their whole family is safe and dry.

The Philippines is a poor country but we are rich in spirit. We are resilient. We work amazingly as a team. We are used to being ravaged by nature, and can keep a sense of humor in the worst of times. Keep the beautiful people of the Philippines alive with your donation! In return we will do what we do best: smile in the face of adversity and be grateful for your help.