For Gladys Directo-Banayat, co-owner of E.C.I. Learning Academy in Chestermere; watching the news of Typhoon Haiyan via a Filipino Channel on TV in the days following the storm was just too much to bear. She and her husband knew they needed to do something to help.
Directo-Banyat migrated to Canada from the Philippines seven years ago. She still has many friends and family living in her home country, all of whom were safe in the storm as they did not live near the worst hit area.
Gladys explains that through a Filipino Channel on TV she and her husband were able to acquire much more elaborate coverage then what is offered on our local news stations regarding the destruction caused by Typhoon Haiyan, also known as ‘Yolanda’ to the local people.
“It was unbelievable and I couldn’t stand seeing people crying for help and the faces of children,” states Directo-Banayat, “it crushed my heart and really felt like I had to do something.”
That’s when through facebook, Directo-Banayat read that a friend of hers named Warren Estrabo; who is living in the Philippines, posted information about how he was collecting goods from local families that were able to give clothing and other items, and deliver them to areas in need.
Directo-Banayat contacted him and asked if she sent her donation to him, would he be able to help her to get the donations to those in need. Without hesitation, Estrabo answered yes. That’s when she decided to ask the parents at E.C.I. Learning Academy in Chestermere for help.
A letter went home with children on Tuesday November 12 asking parents for help and within four days the preschool families donated $1,435.00.
“It was pretty amazing and I felt like crying for I didn’t really expect that we would be able to raise that much money.”
The preschool teacher immediately sent the money to Estrabo, who then used it to go shopping for supplies. Then a group of volunteers packed the rice, canned goods, water, clothing, slippers, etc. into individual bags each with enough goods for one family.
“With all the money that was donated and together with other friends and volunteers back home, they were able to repack goods enough for 500+ families.” says Directo-Banyat, who goes on to explain that the volunteers were able to deliver the goods over the weekend to foundations that are arranging for transport into the affected areas.
“We did it privately – just acted as citizens who believe that in our own little way, we can help people who are in need. We wanted to make sure that the donations reached the people who really needed it so I was happy and grateful that a friend back home was more than willing to help.”
All the staff at E.C.I. Learning Academy, many of whom are from the Philippines, including Gladys Directo-Banayat would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to their preschool families. “Words are not enough to express how grateful we are for your donations for the victims of Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. From the management of E.C.I. Learning Academy, THANK YOU VERY MUCH for the trust and support. We are very lucky to be surrounded by people who truly care for others. May you all be blessed for your kindness and generosity.”
