A crisis by its very definition is temporary. Disaster strikes. Families and children suffer. Relief arrives. Families and children are left alone again. But for children and families in poverty, the effects of a disaster can last for years, even generations. That's why it's important that a crisis response address not only the present but also the future needs of children living in poverty. Compassion's long-standing community relationships with local churches enable just that.

Short-Term Becomes Long-Term

For example, on Nov. 30, 2006, Typhoon Durian slammed into the Philippines and its many islands, killing more than 1,000 people and leaving tens of thousands homeless. More than 8,000 Compassion-assisted children were affected. Some lost homes, others were temporarily displaced, and others just needed food and clean water. All received supplies they needed to survive. But about 500 families were left without homes.

"The help we were able to extend was for the immediate crisis, but … not for the long run," says Pastor Jose Dasco, leader of the Risen Lord Church in Legazpi.

Days into the crisis, Compassion Philippines constructed temporary shelters out of tents. These "child-friendly" centers served as a safe haven for children to live a life closer to normal. But to truly offer relief, Compassion had to figure out a way to rebuild homes, and by doing so rebuild shattered lives.

Delayed Gratification

Compassion Philippines could have rebuilt homes for the affected children right away. But those homes would have been made from the only material available: thin strips of wood, unable to withstand a typhoon or storm. So the plan was to use the tent shelters until a long-term solution could be found.

Finding a Partner

It wasn't long before Compassion Philippines heard about Habitat for Humanity International's rebuilding efforts in the disaster area. The two groups met. A partnership was forged. Thanks to support from Compassion donors and supporters and from Habitat for Humanity, children and families were offered sturdier homes that could withstand typhoon-strength winds up to 300 mph.

Persuading the Government

In order for the homes in Legazpi to be built, suitable land was needed. Compassion Philippines and Habitat negotiated with the Philippine government to purchase land that was not susceptible to flooding and mudslides. A lot of this "politicking" was done by church partner staff, such as Pastor Dasco. He helped to scout and find suitable land for building. Eventually, thanks to Compassion sponsors and donors, more than 370 Compassion-assisted families received new sturdy and permanent housing.

"Our house used to be ugly," says 10-year-old Aldrin. "Now it's beautiful."

Building those homes took more than six months — and a focus on long-term development.

"Having the Church as our entry point gives Compassion the advantage over other organizations," says Sidney Muisyo, Director of Compassion Kenya. "Partnering with locally owned structures makes intervening in cases of crises, such as the one just experienced, more manageable and easier in terms of tracking. The long-term relationship which Compassion has with the churches gives us an advantage in addressing the long-term needs of the sponsored children and their families."

How is Compassion's response to a crisis different from other organizations?

How is Compassion's response to a crisis locally administered?

How is Compassion's response to a crisis customized?

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