The Philippines were hit with one of the largest typhoons known to man, as Typhoon Haiyan took nearly 1,220 miles of land in torrential rainfall. Winds that were almost 200 mph took over the land as many became deserted as homes were flooded, and shelters overstocked as many tried to find shelter. By Tuesday of last week the death count had risen to 1,778, and officials fear that they are merely scratching the service on a total number of losses. The Category 5 typhoon has injured nearly 3,000 people and left more than 2 million without food and proper shelter. Local store owners in surrounding cities are already threatening to take action against those who try to break in the stores, as thousands of people are going to desperate measures to find food. Tomoo Hozumi, the Philippines' UNICEF representative told CNN's "The Situation Room" that "the situation on the ground is very hideous, food,shelter,clean water, and basic sanitation are in a severe shortage." Disaster relief organizations are coming together to help the Philippines have the basic necessities as food, medicine, and shelter. 

    The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod departs today to join Red Cross, and Samaritans Purse in the towns that were devastated the most by the typhoon. The church raised over $100,000 for the disaster relief and are planning on delivering the money today, as well as, planning for the long term recovery from the wake of Typhoon Haiyan. "After hearing of the 'largest typhoon' in recorded history and a report from the president of our partner, the Lutheran Church of the Philippines (LCP), that at least three congregations as well as the homes of pastors and church members would need to be rebuilt, the LCMS is engaging its mercy response to find the best way to assist," said the Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison, president of the LCMS. "These funds will provide some immediate relief, and I am deeply grateful to our generous donors for making this grant possible.". 

On Friday, Samaritan's Purse deployed a disaster response team that provided desperate relief for the victims of the typhoon. As they reached ground on Saturday, the team of nutrition specialists and relief workers immediatley began working on finding proper shelter, food, and giving the survivors water, as well as, hygiene items. Philippine President, President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared a "state of calamity" in the more badly hit areas, which gives the government powers to deal with the crisis, including the discounting of goods and supplies. Aid pledges are beginning to pour in more heavily as nearly $36 million has already been given by the surrounding countries including the United Nation, European Union, Britian, and United Arab Emirates. Samaritan's Purse, UNICEF, Canadian Red Cross and many other organizations are allowing donations on their homepage for the relief fund of Typhoon Haiyan. Click here for the webpage that shows all organizations donating to the Philippines.