Habitat for Humanity has launched an appeal to assist thousands of families affected by Typhoon Bopha (called Pablo in the Philippines), which destroyed or damaged more than 133,000 homes across 30 regions. The typhoon struck on Tuesday 4 December, killing more than 700 people and affecting 5.4 million, according to latest government statistics.

Habitat for Humanity Philippines has already distributed emergency shelter repair kits to families in Monkayo, Compostela Valley, on the island of Mindanao – one of the worst affected areas. It aims to support more than 15,000 families with shelter repair kits over the coming weeks. Shelter repair kits contain lumber, fiber cement boards, galvanized iron sheeting, nails, hammer, handsaw, nails and roof sealant.

“Tens of thousands of people in the Philippines are in need of shelter. The need is great and we are appealing for funds so that we can help more affected families,” said Rick Hathaway, Asia-Pacific vice president for Habitat for Humanity.

Donations can be made at habitat.org/asiapacific