Haiti- Six Months After the Earthquake
Tuesday, July 13th, 2010
It has been exactly six months since the devastating earthquake in Haiti. That story is no longer in the headlines, yet for those living in Haiti there are constant reminders of that terrible day.
Haitians continue to suffer the effects of that catastrophic event. One and a half million continue to live in camps in road medians, fields and open areas. In tent cities, sanitation, latrines and proper hygiene are still major issues. Many are dependent on water trucked in as their only source of clean water. Those who have lost limbs or were injured continue to suffer due to lack of medical care. To compound their misery, it is the rainy season.
Pure Water continues its work in Port au Prince, and more specifically Cite Soleil, providing water to 80,000 people daily. The filter factory is again operational and producing bio sand filters. The PWW schools program is underway and the staff is continuing to assess schools where previously installed filters were damaged and will be replaced.
Pure Water has been working with numerous other organizations since the earthquake. Many have approached us asking that we provide clean water and hygiene education to the orphanages, health clinics, hospitals, and schools where they are working. This cooperative approach has opened many doors with such organizations as – Save the Children, UNICEF, International Rescue Committee, World Vision and others.
Our staff continues to work tirelessly. Whether it is working in the field, in the filter factory, or caring for the neighborhood children, they have performed magnificently during this difficult time and we are extremely grateful for their dedication.
The need continues in Haiti – the crises did not end when the major television networks left. We would like to thank all of our donors who have given of their time and funds to help support our work. Without your generosity, many would be living without a basic human right we take for granted – clean drinking water.
Children carrying water in Cite Soleil
