Help Response to the Earthquake in Haiti

On January 12, 2010 a 7.0 magnitude quake hit Haiti, killing many thousands of people in this densely populated country and leaving many more homeless and without access to critical services. Our thoughts are with those people affected by this terrible disaster.

Synergos does not work in Haiti, but among the international development organizations that share our values of social justice and collaboration is Partners in Health, which has deep connections and expertise in that country. Partners in Health’s clinical director in Haiti sent the following message:

“Port-au-Prince is devastated, lot of deaths....Temporary field hospital by us at UNDP needs supplies, pain meds, bandages. Please help us.”

You can contribute online to help Partners in Health respond to this crisis.

You can also help long-term recovery from the earthquake through initiatives that strengthening local community development. One way to do that is through the BrandAid Project, which has been working with artisan communities in Port au Prince and Jakmel, helping them create a brand name and position their work online and with retailers. Sadly, two Haitian artisans in the Cite Soleil neighborhood of Port au Prince were killed. Other reports are equally distressing.

Proceeds from BrandAid’s sales are supporting Haitian relief efforts. You can shop from local artisans now and help support earthquake response.

Grantmakers without Borders has put together a list of other organizations through which you can channel support. Their site lists some important criteria to help in deciding how to donate in response to disasters such as the one in Haiti.

January 13, 2010