In an effort to aid the residents who were affected by Typhoon Odette, third year BS-Nursing student Patricia June S. Pomoy held a donation drive in Surigao City and in Siargao island.
Pomoy, whose parents are from Siargao island, said in an interview with the Communications Bureau that she started her call for donations on December 23, 2021, and she was able to raise a total of P100,005, which mostly came from her friends and professors living in Metro Manila. She likewise helped coordinate the support provided by the UST Alumni Association, Inc. and the Thomasian Alumni Leaders Association.
The relief drive was able to send more than 150 relief packs that contained food, hygiene kits, and mosquito coils to barangays Jaboy (109 families), Dayaohay (125 families), and Caridad (422 households). Moreover, according to her, a total of 15 families, whose livelihood is solely fishing and kopra farming, received GI sheets (roof), umbrella nails, and Vulca Seal tubes to help them rebuild their shelters.
Despite being a victim of Typhoon Odette herself, she said that this was her way of giving back to the community that is close to her heart. “By initiating this donation drive, this is one way for me to give back, although I am also a victim of this typhoon (too),” she said.
“I have always asked God to help me become His instrument of love. I am grateful that I have the voice to ask for help on behalf of my community. My voice was able to put roof over their head and food on their table. Indeed, God will make a way,” she added.
