Most of you have heard the news of the 7.2 magnitude earthquake that hit Haiti Saturday, August 14. The earthquakes epicenter is about 120 miles west of the Port au Prince area, where we work and where our students live and attend school.
I am happy to report that our Partners in Education Haiti families and the children and staff at Notre Maison’s Children’s Home are safe, frightened, but safe. They felt the tremors from the earthquake, which brought back terrifying memories from 2010 when all of our students lost family and friends.
I am part of a network called HaitiOne. It is a resource that connects organizations around the world that work in Haiti. Through this link, I have learned that many trained and experienced relief and health organizations are grouping to work with those suffering in Les Cayes and the surrounding area. The destruction in this area is devastating, and as of today, the death toll is 1,300, with 10s of thousands injured and displaced.
Our students and families will suffer as a result of the earthquake. Blocked roads and scarcity of food and medical supplies make it more difficult for our students and families and school facilities to function. Conditions will become much worse in the days and weeks ahead.
In addition, this afternoon and this evening (August 16) will tell how Tropical Depression Grace impacts the area.
Our students are preparing for school. It is the one constant that they have in their lives right now. In addition to providing scholarships, our program offers assistance for food, medical care, and housing. And, it gives these families hope for the future, something they desperately need, especially now.
Please consider donating by tapping our DONATE button. Partners in Education Haiti is a 501c3 organization. Donations are tax-deductible.
~ Debra Buzard