As part of the world's largest charity network, the Canadian Red Cross is committed to helping those affected by emergencies and disasters.
By broadening the access that people have to essential services after a disaster, the Canadian Red Cross helps individuals around the world gain resources and begin the process of recovering.
For one woman, the Canadian Red Cross' impact on the ground changed everything in the aftermath of the 2010 earthquake in Haiti.
Marie's story
Marie Carmel Pierre operated a small shop inside her home in Haiti. Her husband, who once drove a taxi, helped run the business.
On Jan. 12, 2010, Marie's life changed dramatically. Her husband died after becoming trapped in their home, which was destroyed by the earthquake.
Marie, who was left homeless with three children to take care of, soon decided that she would need to leave the country in order to start a new life.
That was until she encountered the Canadian Red Cross. Thanks to volunteers with the Canadian Red Cross handing out food, water and other supplies to people in her neighbourhood, she decided to stay in Haiti.
On Christmas Eve, 2011, Marie received a gift from the Canadian Red Cross that meant everything - a new home.
For Marie - who had sent some of her children to stay with her mother due to her living conditions in a temporary shelter - the home provided by the Canadian Red Cross gave her the opportunity to begin healing.
The Canadian Red Cross in Haiti
Since the 2010 earthquake, the Canadian Red Cross has provided an integral layer of support in Haiti and has sought to improve the lives of those forced to leave their homes and take up shelter at camps.
In spring 2012, the Canadian Red Cross completed work on more than 7,500 homes that meet or exceed the standards for an earthquake zone. The Canadian Red Cross has also provided more than 2,000 families with cash grants for rental accommodations - an effort which is part of the Red Cross Resettlement Program that provides safe shelter solutions to internally displaced people and their families.
Show your support
There are countless people like Marie who have been impacted by emergencies and disasters, but with help from the Canadian Red Cross, they can gain the resources they need to rebuild.
With assistance from generous Canadians like you, the Canadian Red Cross can continue to work toward its mission of providing humanitarian aid to vulnerable individuals and communities around the world.
A contribution can help you make a difference in the lives of those in need. To show your support, please donate online or at your local Canadian Red Cross office today.