Donate for the Haitian Earthquake Survivors

The earthquake in Port-Au-Prince, Haiti resulted in thousands of deaths, injured individuals and buildings that have been reduced to rubble. It is estimated that a third of Haiti's 9 million people are in need of aid. The people of Haiti are in dire need of help and to make matters worse, relief efforts have been obstructed by blocked roads, congestion at the airports and limited equipment. Luckily, with the help of rescue crews, much needed relief (food, water and other aid) have been delivered to help lives that have been spared. People are in such desperation that there have also been reports of looting as people scrambled for any of the little food and water that may be available. Here are a few ways you can help:

Step 1
Donate to the American Red Cross

We can help the American Red Cross as it delivers food, water and medicine that can save lives. Donate $10 by texting "HAITI" to 9-0-9-9-9. You can also visit redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS. All help is greatly needed.

The American Red Cross is working around the clock to meet the challenges and ensure aid reaches the survivors. They have dozens of disaster specialists in Haiti, assessing the damage, addressing urgent needs and establishing the foundation for a long-term recovery operation. The Red Cross team includes engineers, surgeons and family linking specialists, who are trying to establish field hospitals, restore water and sanitation systems, distribute supplies and restore family links facilities.

Thus far, the American Red Cross has received 37 million dollars in donations, half through online contributions with others through support from corporations and record-setting activity in mobile giving. First lady Michelle Obama sent a message asking people to join her in supporting the American Red Cross relief efforts in Haiti.

Step 2
Donate to UNICEF

If this is where you would like to make donations, please visit: www.unicefusa.org/haitiquake or call 1-800-4UNICEF.

UNICEF is also very involved in the humanitarian operation in Haiti to provide much needed relief and support. Their efforts are also to supply the lifesaving need of food, water, medicines and shelter. Nearly 50% of Haiti's population is under the age of 18, and UNICEF has a particularly critical role to play in seeking approximately $120 million for its work as part of the humanitarian relief efforts. UNICEF has saved more children's lives than any other humanitarian organization in the world. Our mission is to do whatever it takes to make that number zero by giving children the essentials for a safe and healthy childhood.

It is amazing how so many people have pulled together at this difficult time . . . and that we should. It is so heartwarming to witness the kindnesses of so many corporations, companies, and celebrities. Unity is needed the most and we can all do our part, no matter how big or small.

There is an unending channel of support out there from the Catholic Relief fund (Secure.CRS.org), FoodForThePoor.org/haitiquake, www.habitat.org/Haiti-Earthquake, www.clintonfoundation.org/haitirelief, and others such as the International Federation of Red Cross, Mercy Corps Haiti Earthquake Fund, Partners in Health, and the UN World Food Program. Many local banks have also set up funds for acquiring donations to the earth quake victims.

Step 3

Finally, be aware of some of the scams out there - Unfortunately at this time there are also scammers who will be coming out of the wood work asking for donations, clothing and valuables so be wary of your choice of charity and be sure it is a reputable organization. Lisa Madigan from here in Illinois advises that those giving such donations ask the charity about their transportation and distribution plans and for all to generally be wary of those who are not experienced in disaster relief assistance.

Several local organizations and churches in local cities are organizing their own efforts to donate to this distressing cause, giving individuals more options. Some of the organizations here in Illinois include some of the state banks, the Illinois lottery, the Chicago Cubs, Food 4 Less Stores, Lutheran Churches and more. Get on line and find all the information and resources you can, and pour your heart out to the needs of all those men, women and adorable suffering children. They need your help and support, providing you with an overwhelming feeling of satisfaction in knowing that, in some little way, you have made a difference.