The typhoon, which now took place over a month ago, wrought havoc and devastation across the Philippines, and the local Filipino community have decided to raise funds for their homeland through a fundraising Christmas party, which will be held at Otterbourne Village Hall on 22nd December 2013 from 7pm.
Organiser Agnes Sitjar, who lives in Badger Farm, said: "The proceeds of the Filipino Christmas party will go to the Community of the Benedictine Sisters, who have lost their schools, convent and hospitals in Tacloban, Leyte, Philippines. By donating money directly to this charity, we know that it will immediately get put into use aiding victims of the Typhoon Haiyan.
"The after effects of the devastation will be felt for a long time, hence we are going to be helping them in our own little way and we'll be holding other events next year to aid in the long term rehabilitation."
Steve Brine raised the event in the House of Commons as MPs discussed the aid that Britain is sending to the Philippines. He says: "It is hard to believe that this gigantic, and truly horrendous, storm took place over a month ago now, and it is clear that it will take many years for Filipinos to recover.
"I am well briefed from Ministers that the UK is injecting aid exactly where it is most needed, and I was so pleased to hear about the Otterbourne Christmas fundraiser. I know from talking to Agnes that they are totally geared up for the event, and I am delighted to give her and her team my full support."
Tickets will be available at the door for £10 a head. Ticket price includes all food, soft drinks and entertainment, however people will need to bring their own alcoholic drinks. A raffle draw will also take place on the night, and donations for prizes would be very gratefully received.
Anyone interested in finding out more can contact Agnes via [email protected].