By Jeff Neumann
Many know of the devastation brought to the Philippines after Typhoon Haiyan tore a path of destruction over 160km wide through the central Philippines back in November 2013.
As the recovery and rebuilding phase continues, Australian Rules has been able to bring somewhat, be it a small amount, happiness to the lives of children in local communities such as Tacloban, Manila, Cebu, Boracay and Guimara islands.
These communities were some of the heaviest struck areas throughout the Philippines.
Local football identity and passionate Hawthorn supporter Chris Skehan has been a Vincentian volunteer for just over 2 years and jumped at the opportunity to head over to the Philippines and volunteer his time, not only to experience and witness the local culture but help make a difference where he could.
Chris contacted the AFL Queensland game development office on the Darling Downs, to see what was available to donate to the local children.
At first Chris only asked for a little amount of gear to take over but was happy with the response he received with a box full of footballs, bags and giveaways passed on, to help make a difference where possible.
Chris couldn't thank the game development staff enough.
"Big thanks for the footys and bags, bloody awesome," Skehan said.
"There's going to be some happy kids."
On his return Chris passed on photo's of the Philippine children kicking and enjoying themselves with the footys, which has in someway made a difference.
Last Modified on 10/06/2014 13:58
