West Texas gift to Philippine typhoon victims could reach $1.5 million as donor triples contribution

MIDLAND—An anonymous West Texan, identified only as a “generous donor from the Permian Basin,” has committed to helping raise what could amount to as much as $1.5 million to benefit the victims of Typhoon Haiyan, the devastating storm that struck the Philippines on Nov. 8.

The donor will give $2 for every dollar donated and, in total, is committing $1million personally in an attempt to raise a combined total of $1.5 million. All funds will be directed to Catholic Relief Services’ efforts in the Philippines.

Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer, Bishop of the Diocese of San Angelo, called the gift “astounding.”

“Whenever there is a natural disaster such as this, the people of West Texas always respond generously,” Bishop Pfeifer said. “I am deeply grateful to our people, and in particular this one anonymous donor, and all the donations that will go to aid the victims in the Philippines.”

People from all faiths are encouraged to participate in this overwhelming gesture of generosity from west Texas. To donate to the 2-to-1 matching contribution efforts, visit donate.crs.org/goto/HaiyanMatch.

As of Nov. 20, churches in the San Angelo diocese had raised $30,000. Four priests in the Diocese of San Angelo who are natives of the Philippines have families that have been directly affected by the storm.