Dear family, brethren, and friends,

The government of the Republic of the Philippines recently reported 30 provinces are suffering the effects of severe drought.  I have received numerous reports and appeals from brethren pleading for help.  Because of my travel in the Philippines during April and many duties awaiting when I returned home, I have been delayed in putting out a general appeal for help.  I saw the crops drying up and withering in some areas on my trip.

In the mountains of southern Mindanao, some brethren have resorted to eating a root which if not prepared exactly right becomes poisonous.  When warned of this danger, there is a proverb used which says, “It is better to die on a full stomach rather than an empty one.”  Living in a land of plenty, we can hardly relate to such desperate measures.

If anyone would like for me to relay funds to the saints in drought-stricken areas, I will be glad to do so.  Individuals who need a tax deduction can make checks to HELP A NEIGHBOR (a legal charity as defined by the IRS).  Otherwise, checks can simply be written to Ron Halbrook.  All funds should be sent to my home at 3505 Horse Run Ct., Shepherdsville, KY 40165-6954 and marked for “drought relief.”

If anyone would prefer to send funds directly to the brethren, I will gladly put you in contact with reliable Filipino men who can serve as faithful messengers to deliver the funds to the affected areas and congregations.  You would need to use MoneyGram, Western Union, or bank wires to send the money.  It is not safe to send checks to the Philippines because of dangers they will be stolen in the postal system or vital information will be lifted from the checks passing through the Philippine banking system.

Above all, let our fervent prayers ascent to heaven on behalf of Filipino saints who are suffering the effects of this terrible drought.

In Christian love,
Ron Halbrook

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