Written by: Vedanshi
Edited by: Lia
Visual by: Rei
On August 6th, a fire in Tondo left approximately 1,500 families homeless. A second fire on September 14th destroyed much of what had been rebuilt, displacing another 1,000 families. Flooding in the area due to the southwest monsoon rains has further intensified the impact of these disasters.
In response, the Service Learning Council (SLC) has organized a Tondo fire donation drive outside the Middle School Office. Initially scheduled to close on September 12th, the drive was extended until next Friday due to the aftermath of the second fire and subsequent flooding.
Service partners, including Upskills Foundation, Young Focus, and Stepping Stone, are working closely with SLC to support those impacted by the fires and flooding. However, the Upskills base in Tondo has also been affected. Its roof and livelihood center were partially destroyed, making it difficult for the organization to remain operational.
SLC president Manushri explained, “[the fire] left thousands of people homeless, and there were several people who sustained injuries and burns.”
“It’s very concerning how there are a lot of fires and flooding at the same time,” added Ella, the SLC secretary.
Currently, partnered organisations have requested donations of toiletries, bedding, and kitchenware, among other supplies listed by the Giving Tree. SLC and ISM’s service partners strongly encourage the community to donate what they can to support those affected in Tondo.
