In 2010, Haiti was hit with a powerful earthquake that sent ripples of destruction across the island. Many people perished during the initial shock wave, while thousands more dealt with the devastating effects of losing their homes and being forced into the streets and countryside. As Haiti is a nation that has historically struggled with poverty, the earthquake caused further complications with finding shelter, adequate food and water, vital medical services and displaced family members for millions of individuals.
As one of the world's leading charity organizations, the Red Cross immediately sprang into action to assist Haitian citizens in the aftermath of the earthquake. The Red Cross is uniquely equipped to provide humanitarian relief for regions that have been affected by major emergencies and disasters - from hurricanes and tsunamis to earthquakes and wildfires.
Canadian Red Cross efforts in Haiti
In the three years since the earthquake first hit Haiti in 2010, the Canadian Red Cross has been an active participant in emergency relief and recovery efforts. The Red Cross has distributed more than 14,400 tons of supplies to the nation and supported nearly five million Haitians in need.
These initiatives have included providing about 2.5 million litres of clean water for drinking and washing in addition to offering healthcare services to more than 230,000 individuals. Beyond that, contributions from Canadians have enabled the Canadian Red Cross to build 7,500 homes in Jacmel and Leogane while offering rent money to 2,089 displaced families. As for health initiatives, nearly 2,300 Haitians have been treated for cholera at Canadian Red Cross centres.
Beyond relief, one of the Canadian Red Cross' most important initiatives in Haiti has been the development of an integrated health program. This five year health program will seek to maximize positive, long-term health outcomes for Haitians by improving access to quality health services for mothers, newborns and children, and by strengthening community resilience in terms of community care and first aid. The program will include working to rebuild the departmental hospital in Jacmel that was damaged during the earthquake, rehabilitating health centres, training health care professionals and local community workers, health education programing, and strengthening institutional capacities in terms of planning, management and evaluation.
This effort includes coordination with Canada's Sainte-Justine University Hospital Centre, Public Health Department, International Health Unit and Montreal Health and Social Services Agency as well as the Ministry of Public Health and Haitian Population.
The Red Cross' efforts in Canada and around the world depend on the support of concerned individuals like you. Visit the Canadian Red Cross' website to find out how you can donate to support earthquake relief programs in Haiti today.