Earthquake Information

On January 12, 2010, an earthquake of 7.0 magnitude struck Haiti just outside the capital, Port-au-Prince. The initial shock was followed by multiple aftershocks. The figures for fatalities, injured and homeless are still not known. Regardless of the final numbers, it is clear that this is the gravest humanitarian crisis in the region in many years and that recovery will be a massive undertaking.

Damage is in some cases total. The collapsed President’s residence and the national cathedral—two hugely symbolic structures—are sadly emblematic of the fate of many buildings in Port-au-Prince. According to the Haitian government not a single school stands in the city. Critical infrastructure, most significantly the city’s port, has been severely damaged. The headquarters of the UN mission in Haiti collapsed in the earthquake and has been relocated.

The relief effort needs to focus on “building back better;” ensuring that Haitian institutions are stronger and more resilient, and that the most vulnerable are protected. The need for immediate relief should not undermine the long term goal of a sustainable recovery. Now is the time for the international community to stand with Haiti and make a concerted effort to help the country, both in these trying days and in the challenging years to come.

We will be updating this website with news as it comes in and with additional ways to help. We thank you for your concern and commitment.