On January 12th, a 7.0 magnitude earthquake devastated the island nation of Haiti. According to reports, this was the country's most severe earthquake in two hundred years. The epicenter of the earthquake struck the Haitian capital of Port-au-Prince, leaving the city in shambles.
In the aftermath of the earthquake, thousands of people may be dead and many more are wounded. Survivors in Haiti are facing a shortage of medical attention and a lack of basic necessities, like food and water.
For many Kentuckians in the Fourth District, this crisis strikes close to home as several area churches were leading mission trips in Haiti at the time of the earthquake. If you have a friend or loved one in Haiti, the U.S. State Department advises you to call 1-888-407-4747 to check on their safety. Due to heavy call volume, please be aware that you may receive a recorded message. Communications within Haiti are very difficult at this time. In a recent statement, the State Department warned that they are still in the early stages of contacting American citizens in Haiti.
In an effort to help Haitians and Americans affected by this disaster, I have compiled a list of resources and information on ways you can get involved in helping Haiti to recover. If you have questions, or need additional assistance, please do not hesitate to contact my Fort Mitchell office at (859) 426-0080. My staff and I will do whatever we can to help you.
How can you help?
- Visit the American Red Cross' website to learn about how you can assist their efforts in Haiti.
- InterAction, a coalition of U.S.-based international nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) has posted a comprehensive list of organizations accepting aid for Haiti. Find their list here.
- Visit the Doctors Without Borders website for information on how you can help survivors get the medical attention they need.
- The KY Enquirer has also posted an article about how to help in Haiti. Read the article here.
- The U.S. State Department has created a website with the latest news on recovery in Haiti, information on finding missing persons, and ways you can help the people of Haiti. Click here to visit the site.
- Former Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush have teamed up to help Haiti. You can learn about the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund on the White House website by clicking here.
- ShelterBox USA is an international non-profit disaster relief program that is working to help Haiti. The Rotary Club of Covington has joined with ShelterBox to help. Learn more here.
- The First Church of Christ in Burlington is helping Haiti. You can contact the Church for information at (859) 586-HOPE.
- For information on avoiding scams when donating to Haitian relief organizations, check out this article from Forbes Magazine.
Note: The list above does not constitute endorsement by Congressman Geoff Davis of linked sites or the information, products, or services contained therein. Please use your own judgment when making a donation to ensure that your dollars go to an organization that will make the most of your generosity.
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