REFUGE FOR THE HOUSE OF REFUGE

During typhoon Ondoy, the House of Refuge inside Provident went underwater.

30 children aged 3 to 20, the houseparents and staff had to climb to the roof of their 2-level apartment to avoid the fast-rising flood water which has engulfed the entire village.

But with the waters still rising, they had to cross to a neighbor's house diagonal from them using electric and telephone wires. I can't even begin to describe how they did it, but certainly it was brave, heroic, dangerous, necessary.

They escaped but were in knee deep water even when they were on the 3rd floor. No one slept. The children were traumatized. They saw dead bodies floating.

The next day, we were able to get them after they were rescued from the building and brought to a church outside the village. Through the help of our neighbors, Mr. and Mrs. Bautista, we were able to bring them to our home.

For some days, they sought refuge in our home.

During that, through neighbors, friends, twitter, facebook, etc., we were able to give them everything they needed. The outpouring of support was incredible.

In a week's time, they were able to find a townhouse near my house, and start the rebuilding process. They are back to normal and are living in better conditions now.

Thank you for all those who helped. I need not mention who you are. Thank you for being their angels, their heroes.