Four years after the earthquake, the Red Cross continues to support communities in Haiti

OTTAWA, Jan. 9, 2014 /CNW/ - Four years on from the devastating earthquake in Haiti, the Red Cross continues to help earthquake survivors rebuild and recover. To date, the Red Cross has helped five million earthquake survivors through health, shelter, water and sanitation and other basic needs.

"Canadians can be very proud that their donations are having a lasting and meaningful impact in the lives of earthquake survivors in Haiti," says Conrad Sauvé, secretary general and CEO of the Canadian Red Cross. "The Canadian Red Cross is dedicated to taking the time needed to properly invest in a long-term and sustainable recovery."

The Canadian Red Cross has taken a holistic approach in responding to the disaster to ensure communities are stronger, healthier and more resilient the next time disaster strikes. In addition to sharing expertise and resources with the Haitian Red Cross to help build its capacity to respond to future disasters, the Canadian Red Cross is working alongside communities to develop programming that best fits their needs. This includes violence and abuse prevention activities and improving access to health services for mothers, newborns and children though an integrated health program.

"The Canadian Red Cross is dedicated to improving access to healthcare for the most vulnerable communities in Haiti," adds Sauvé. "It is important that we strive to build a stronger and healthier future for families in Haiti."

The $35 million health program will reconstruct the healthcare system of Haiti's South-East department and is designed to maximize long-term benefits for the most vulnerable groups. It aims to improve access to quality healthcare services for mothers, newborns and children, as well as build stronger communities in terms of community-based health and first aid. Last month, the Canadian Red Cross was proud to celebrate the laying of the cornerstone at the Saint-Michel Hospital in Jacmel, which the Red Cross is reconstructing as part of this initiative.

In addition to investing in sustainable long-term programming, the Canadian Red Cross marked a major milestone in recovery efforts through the completion of its shelter project last year. The program has provided over 7,500 families with homes in Jacmel and Leogane.

The Canadian Red Cross is a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, which includes the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the International Committee of the Red Cross and 187 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Our mission is to improve the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity in Canada and around the world.

SOURCE: Canadian Red Cross

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