The following is an excerpt from a publication by Habitat for Humanity International, “Habitat for Humanity’s Commitment to Rebuilding Haiti” in response to the recent devastation. I would like to share it with you to not only spread awareness of Habitat’s work but also of how the earthquake has brought to light (and, of course, exponentially exacerbated) the existing problems in Haiti, especially regarding what we take for granted: food, shelter, government stability. Please join me and the rest of the SGV Habitat staff in prayer for those affected by this tragedy and in hope for more than just a superficial recovery.
I would also like to say that the excerpts I will post were published and shared with Habitat affiliates just days after the earthquake, and this has truly made me more proud than ever to be a part of an organization that is pro-active, educated and compassionate.

Damage from the earthquake has added yet another dimension to the humanitarian crisis and poverty conditions faced by Haiti, where more than 80 percent of the people live on less htan US$2 per day and 55 percent live on less than US$1 a day.
In the past two years, political instability, food shortages, tropical storms and hurricanes have made it next to impossible for Haitians to break the cycle of poverty. More than 50,000 homes were damaged or destroyed in 2008 storms alone, and the next Atlantic hurricane season is fast approaching.
Most Haitian homes are of low-quality construction and not built to withstand disasters. Walls are made of concrete bricks, mud or stones that lack steel reinforcement and are not anchored to a foundation. Roofs are often made of scrap wood and metal sheets; floors are dirt.
Although the full toll of homes damaged or destroyed is not yet known, Habitat for Humanity International has begun to respond and will remain there long after relief efforts have faded and long-term recovery work begins.
Based on current information and past experience with international disasters, Habitat for Humanity is planning a multiphase strategy that includes early recovery and mid- and long-term responses.

[I have summarized Habitat's planned three phase recovery below]

1 – Early Recovery: This will include recovery starter kits, which include basic construction tools to make immediate repairs and construct emergency shelter; this phase will also include re-establishing operations for our Habitat affiliate in Haiti.
2 – Rehabilitation and Cleanup: Habitat will be mobilizing people to remove debris and salvage materials that can be used to build new shelters, and to assist in repairing homes with smaller amounts of damage; this will include providing Haitian residents with such tools as shovels, wheelbarrows, etc. as well as to provide them with cash to cover their basic needs (for food, etc.)
3 – Reconstruction and Recovery: Habitat will replace destroyed homes with transitional housing to address immediate housing needs; for the future, the transitional housing will then be built upon and improved upon to provide the beginning of a new, permanent home; the core transitional shelter unit will adhere to international Sphere standards, providing adequate living space for the average Haitian family of five.

You can donate to San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity specifically for Haiti relief efforts. 100% of your donation will go directly to Habitat’s recovery plan. Donate online or you can send in a check to our office at 400 S. Irwindale Avenue, Azusa CA 91702 — please be sure to designate your gift for Haiti so we can ensure that every cent goes to where it is needed the most.

Habitat has had a presence in Haiti for 26 years and will continue to not only help the small country recover after the devastating earthquake, but will also continue to work to improve and stabilize the lives of Haitians long after recovery efforts have been “completed.” If you have any questions or would like to help, please feel free to contact our office or Habitat headquarters (write to 121 Habitat Street, Americus GA 31709).