January 13, 2010

As survivors clear rubble, search for loved ones, and mourn their losses since yesterday's massive earthquake in Haiti, the Christian Reformed World Relief Committee is providing support and preparing plans for long-term aid.

"The earthquake that hit the capital city, where both CRWRC and Christian Reformed World Missions personnel are stationed, was severe," CRWRC Director, Ida Kaastra Mutoigo reported this morning. "But we have confirmed that all Christian Reformed staff are safe."

CRWRC staff in on the ground in Haiti are now gearing up to aid to their neighbors in need. CRWRC has been working in Haiti for more than 30 years. By partnering with local churches and community organizations, CRWRC empowers Haitian community leaders to no longer see themselves as victims of poverty, but with gifts and resources to serve others.

In this new time of crisis, these local partners are now leading their communities in responding to the most urgent needs. CRWRC U.S. Director Andrew Ryskamp says that, "the scale of the response in Haiti could easily top $1 million."

"During a disaster like this, it is hard to see past the immediate devastation," said Ken Little, CRWRC's Disaster Response Senior Project Manager, "but one of CRWRC's strengths is in our local leaders and community connections that can respond immediately and help to quickly distribute aid to those who most need it."

CRWRC's immediate, emergency aid will include emergency supplies like water, shelter and food. "We want to get survivors out of the sun, out of the damage, and hydrated," said CRWRC's Disaster Program Manager, Jacqueline Koster. CRWRC is collaborating with other relief and development organizations to ensure that the aid efforts are coordinated and no needs fall through the gaps.

On Friday (1/15), Little and two CRWRC International Relief Managers will be travelling to Haiti to assess needs and prepare plans for additional aid. He expects that CRWRC's response will include temporary shelter as well as long-term home repair and reconstruction.

Financial contributions to this effort are urgently needed. Gifts marked "Haiti Earthquake 2010" can be given online at http://www.crwrc.org/, called in to 1-800-55-CRWRC (U.S.) or mailed to CRWRC at 2850 Kalamazoo Avenue, S.E., Grand Rapids, Michigan 49560-0600.

Christian Reformed World Relief Committee