Disaster in Haiti: how you can help

Sara Mayhew
February 7, 2010
Filed under News & Features

As we all know, the horrible tragedy that occurred in Haiti on January 12, 2010, has devastated many innocent men, women, and children. With no homes, food, or water, the people of Haiti are trying their best just to survive the aftermath of a treacherous earthquake; yet, there is still hope. Many Americans are giving a helping hand to those in need; even with the economical crisis we are in.

Where ever you turn your head, there is an organization ready to educate you about how you can get involved in helping the people of Haiti.

One organization you can donate to is UNICEF, the United Nations Children’s Fund, which works for children’s rights, their survival, development and protection. This organization is deploying clean water and sanitation supplies, as well as food, medical supplies, and temporary shelters to the victims in Jacmal and Port-au-Prince.

Another major organization you can donate to is CARE. CARE is a leading humanitarian organization fighting global poverty. CARE plans to start food distributions from the multiple CARE warehouses in Haiti.

While there are major relief efforts throughout the United States, sometimes the smallest efforts go farther than just a large amount of donations. For example, a few Virginia doctors, nurses, and pediatric specialists from INOVA Health Systems will be traveling to Haiti to provide medical care for those who are in need of it.

One church in Virginia, River of Life Worship, is sponsoring a Haiti Relief organization: Convoy of Hope and Christ in Action. Convoy of Hope already is taking action in Haiti, feeding more than 7,000 children daily, while Christ in Action is in need of funds on an ongoing basis in order to replenish their supplies.

These are only a few major organizations to donate to; yet, it’s not all about sending money to help – canned foods and clothing will also be appreciated. No matter how much of a struggle we are in ourselves, we will always lend out a helping hand to others in more need.