WITH temperatures above 40 degrees and humidity skyrocketing, a trio of Leeton men have helped to build five homes for those devastated by Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines.
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More than 6000 were killed during the typhoon, which hit the country on November 8 last year.
Paul Knowd, Ian Bull and Jeff Cottom travelled to a remote community in the Philippines recently to construct simple homes that will now provide basic shelter for those without a roof over their head.
The homes cost around $400, with five being built during their time in the village.
The trio are all Christian men who are part of the Leeton Community Church and the Leeton Christian Revival Church, with both organisations pledging to help and support their crusade where possible.
Mr Knowd's brother also took part in the trip.
"We ended up building the five houses, which was our target," Mr Knowd said. "That was just our first visit ... we're not going in and doing this to just leave again.
"We'll be going back to hopefully build more of these homes, as well as start a feeding program.
"It was like being in a war zone."
Mr Knowd has previously helped Sri Lanka with its rebuilding efforts following the Boxing Day tsunami in 2004, as well as undertaking humanitarian work in South Africa, India and Papua New Guinea.
The group worked in temperatures that were 40 degrees and over, with humidity levels reaching 90 per cent at times.
Mr Cottom said the tough conditions were nothing compared to what Philippines residents had been experienced.
"So many of them lost their homes and family members," he said. "There weren't many buildings intact, so we were glad to be able to do what we could to help.
"A lot of their livelihoods have been destroyed, but they are resilient people."
For more information about how to contribute to the cause or be part of the next visit contact Mr Knowd on 0466 443 371.
