As the earthquake rescue efforts in Haiti continue, reports of a rising number of deaths and injuries are adding to the insurmountable damages to structures in many areas of the country. Over 1,400 lives have been lost, about 7,000 people have been injured, and more than 84,000 homes have been damaged or destroyed. UNICEF reported that approximately 1.2 million people have been affected, including 540,000 children. Aftershocks continue to rattle the country, leaving people stricken with fear and unable to seek shelter indoors. Sleeping outside in the rain, many Haitians are facing the next challenge: tropical storm Grace.
Earthquake victims taking cover from the rain in Les Cayes, Haiti. 08/16/21. (AP Photo / Joseph Odelyn)
Na Rive is currently working with community leaders in Southern Haiti to assess critical needs and determine next steps to support the relief efforts. Meanwhile, they’re already coordinating an initial response to provide food, water, and medical support to the most affected areas, which has become even more challenging given the roads to the South are severely damaged. But if anyone can get through, it’ll be local organizations like Na Rive: nimble, knowledgeable, and powered by the support of generous donors like you.
“The situation on the ground is shocking and so very complicated. Water, food, medical aid — it’s all needed desperately. We are going to do whatever we can to provide relief to our brothers and sisters in the South. And we wouldn’t be able to do that without the support of the What If Foundation and our donors. All of you are like the oil that keeps our engine running. In desperate times like these, I have the strength to get up each morning, ready to take on the challenges ahead, because I know I am not alone. We thank you and send our love.” – Lavarice Gaudin
As we speak, Lavarice is reaching out to partner organizations, working to acquire medication and supplies from the neighboring Dominican Republic, and preparing for travel to the most damaged areas including Les Cayes and Jeremie. By Wednesday, Na Rive will be setting up food pantries and activating mobile clinics to provide relief to those in most dire need. Plans for long-term assistance are also in the works.
Please help us support Na Rive in delivering critical assistance to earthquake victims. Your donation will have a direct impact in their lives in these desperate times.
Since its inception, the What If Foundation has stood in solidarity with the Haitian people through every major challenge they’ve faced: political turmoil, economic crises, droughts, a cholera epidemic, and natural disasters. Join me as we stand with them today, tomorrow and every day.
