Response to Haiti: What Can I Do?

Jan 15, 2010 by Fr Luke Palumbis

The horrific earthquake that has devastated the small island country of Haiti has been in the global media, and let left many asking the question, ‘What can I do to help?’  The magnitude of the disaster, combined with the lack of Haitian infrastructure prior to the earthquake, has created a situation where the majority of physical effort aimed at responding to this disaster is most appropriately coming from foreign countries and militaries.  Although the media has shown limited Non-Governmental Agencies involved in Haiti, effective opportunities are currently limited the efforts of foreign governments; however, this absolutely does not mean that you can not help the people of Haiti. 

First and foremost, we must pray for the souls of all those who have lost their lives in this tragedy, and the lives of all those affected either directly or indirectly.  The power of pray must not be discounted, and we must actualize the reality that this is a response that we all are able to offer!

Secondly, as initial physical responses are being actualized mainly by governments, funding is continually needed to support these efforts, and the efforts which compliment them via independent non-governmental agencies.  A most worthy non-governmental agency that strongly recommend all donate to is International Orthodox Christian Charities, IOCC.  IOCC has already teamed with an ecumenical partner and funded an airlift of shelters and clean water to the people of Haiti!  This is only the first response anticipated by IOCC, which is continuing to gather information as to appropriate short and long-term responses to this tragedy.  In whatever amount you are able prayerfully offer, donate to IOCC’s Haitian Response!

Thirdly, your local church,  organization, or family may assemble Emergency Response Kits.  Health Kits and Baby Kits are in greatest demand currently, however, any of the emergency kits will offer relief and support to a mother, a father, or a child who is in need.  The Metropolis of San Francisco is teaming with IOCC, by supporting this vital response, and encourages all parishes to act to the best of their ability in this Christian endeavor.

Do not leave a void after you ask yourself that question, ‘What can I do to help?’  Your help is needed today—You will make a difference!