BALLYNEETY man Paul Grisewood has just returned from his second trip to the Philippines where he spent 10 days helping families rebuild homes destroyed by Typhoon Haiyan.
One of the strongest storms in history, Typhoon Haiyan caused widespread destruction when it smashed into the Philippines in November 2013. Some 6,300 people were killed and more than one million homes were destroyed or damaged.
Working with housing charity Habitat for Humanity Ireland, Paul volunteered to help low-income families on Bantayan Island to build their own earthquake-and disaster-resistant homes.
Since 1976, Habitat for Humanity has helped 6.8 million people to improve their housing conditions. It works in Ireland and 70 countries around the world.
“I really enjoyed my second trip to the Philippines where we built solid houses for people who lost everything after the typhoon just over two years ago,” said Paul.
“Now 50 families have moved into their homes and children are going to school again. It was a wonderful experience. Thank you to everyone who supported my trip. Your generosity has helped bring a sense of stability to a community in recovery,” he added.
Habitat for Humanity Ireland’s Overseas Volunteering programme is open to members of the Irish public. No construction experience is necessary. For more information log onto www.habitatireland.ie.
by Alan Jacques
