OneSky provides shelter from Typhoon Molave for factory workers’ families

As Typhoon Molave reaches central Vietnam, OneSky’s Early Learning Center in Da Nang is providing shelter for 260 people – mostly factory workers and their families

Reports suggest that between half a million and one million people have already been evacuated as Molave hits central Vietnam. It is the fourth tropical storm to batter the country since October 11 and the strongest in 20 years.

OneSky staff have worked hard to further reinforce the building ahead of the storm, while cooperating with police and government officials to meet their requirements.

The children’s sandpit being used to fill sandbags to weigh down the roof.

Families started arriving on Tuesday evening after workers finished shifts in the surrounding factory zone. They expressed gratitude and relief to have a safe haven for the night, with food also being provided thanks to donations of eggs, rice and noodles.

While it is anticipated the storm should pass by Wednesday evening, OneSky is prepared for many families to stay a second night. Factories will remain closed and people are being told not to travel.

Vietnam is being hit by the most intense series of tropical storms in decades, Molave being the ninth since the start of the year. Millions of people are at risk of losing their homes and livelihoods with weeks of rain and flooding that have so far claimed the lives of over 100 people.

Nowhere in Vietnam has suffered more than its central region this year. Da Nang only fully re-opened a month ago having been at the center of Vietnam’s second wave of Covid-19.

During that time, OneSky teachers and colleagues also worked hard to serve their local community.

The OneSky Early Learning Center in Da Nang was opened in 2017 with the aim of helping the children of rural migrant workers.