Philippine Typhoon relief aided by iTunes donations

We know music can be healing, and Apple is showing this in an unexpected way, collecting donations for the American Red Cross through the iTunes store. One-hundred percent of the funds will go toward aiding the Philippines in the wake of Typhoon Haiyan. Currently, CNN reports the death toll is around 2,500. The Associated Press reports than more than 9 million people have been impacted and as many as 10,000 people are feared dead.

The typhoon took down major power lines so communication in transporting relief supplies was delayed. By now, airports and national roads are operating, but there is a long way to go. Tens of thousands of homes will have to be rebuilt.

ITunes has been successful in raising money for natural disasters in the past. After Superstorm Sandy, Apple donated $2.5 million to relief efforts from the contributions of both iTunes users and employees.

Since the typhoon hit the Philippines this weekend, the world reacted with messages for the Asian nation. This included musicians extending good thoughts and support in the form of public messages. Singer David Archuleta tweeted: Prayers for our friends in the Philippines and all the areas being affected by Typhoon Haiyan. (Team Archie).

Rihanna tweeted: Navy, please keep the people of the Philippines in your prayers! I was just there, this truly breaks my heart.

From the Apple homepage, you can access the donation page when it launched your iTunes store app. You have the option to donate $5, $10, $25, $50, $100 or $200. No, you can't use iTunes store credit. There is no current end date for the campaign, but if you want to help out, be sure to do it sooner rather than later.

Tags
ITunes, Donation, Rihanna
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