Haiti Earthquake – Haiti Methodist District Responds
The Haiti District of the Methodist Church in the Caribbean and Americas are responding to the immediate needs of persons after the Earthquake with support from the World Mission Fund (£15,000)
The earthquake struck the western coast of Haiti in the morning (local time) of the 14 August, causing widespread devastation, loss of life and injury to thousands of Haitians. Over 2,000 people have lost their lives. Over 7000 homes have been destroyed or damaged, as well as businesses. Many church properties, including church buildings, manses and schools have been damaged. Some congregations worshiped in the open air on Sunday. The Methodist clinics appear to be intact, as are some Methodist Schools. Some smaller communities have suffered complete destruction.
The Haiti District is seeking to respond to humanitarian need by organising hygiene kits, WASH station equipment, water purification kits, tents and food packages. Although the main road from Port-au-Prince to Jeremie (the epicentre of the earthquake) has now reopened, damage to main bridges in the area means that there are challenges in getting aid to the communities that most need it. The Haiti District is currently working on transport logistics. (See pictures left and right on the damage to the road and bridge to Jeremie)
As the District is able to obtain a more detailed assessment of the situation for the communities affected, it will be able to assess which communities are in greatest need. Some of these communities are likely be located in the Jeremie and Leon Circuit where the church is present and is able to mobilise its volunteers and workers to distribute relief and humanitarian aid.
This World Mission Fund grant is made in conjunction with the joint All We Can/Methodist Church in Britain Emergency Appeal to aid the response in Haiti.