We’ve all heard about the devastating Typhoon that swept through the Philippines 5 weeks ago and many of us have already reached out to help.

The storm left millions dead, hurt or homeless, but the generosity of people all over the world has been a testament to what we can achieve when we work together.

Numerous organizations like CARE have made the relief effort a priority, and have been able to provide food, shelter and other forms of aid to the people of the Philippines. CARE has given over 42,000 people food, and have been able to get aid to the hard-to-reach, rural areas that other organizations couldn’t access.

While progress has been made, there is still a desperate need for support.

More than one-third of private giving is typically done within the first four weeks of a rapid-onset disaster, and close to two thirds within the first two months. Within five or six months, almost all of this giving stops, reports the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, but the need continues for years to come. While the initial effort has been tremendous, Global Citizens still have a vital role to play in the recovery effort.

By continuing to be active in the relief effort, we can help millions of people build resilience for future storms and support organizations whose work will have impact today, tomorrow, and in the years ahead.

One of the most important things we can do is tell the US Congress that the funding that helps victims of disaster and poverty is a vital investment. The international aid budget accounts for less than 1% of the federal spending, but it’s the main way the United States makes an impact for the world’s poor. Let’s make sure they know that international aid is a priority.

Email Congress by clicking the button in the top-right of this screen and tell them to protect life saving aid for those in need.

Find out other ways you can support the ongoing relief efforts in the Philippines here: Center for Disaster Philanthropy