In November 2013, Typhoon Haiyan hit parts of the Philippines, devastating vast areas of several small islands. Within moments, thousands of people were left without a roof over their heads. Tragically, more than six thousand Filipinos also lost their lives because of the typhoon. Immediately after the disaster, Caritas Czech Republic launched a fundraising campaign and became involved in large-scale humanitarian assistance through its worldwide network.
After basic needs such as food, drinking water, and shelter were secured, further steps focused on the recovery of the affected areas. These included the reconstruction of schools and support for agriculture, such as low-cost rice cultivation, growing alternative crops, and using natural fertilisers.