Haiti – Two years on
Weekly Reflection
Haiti – Two years on
Weekly Reflection

Haiti – Two years on

Since the tragic earthquake of January 2010, the people of Haiti have been working hard to get back on their feet, thanks to the £11 million raised by Christian Aid’s Haiti Earthquake appeal. But in a country where grinding poverty existed well before the disaster struck, this was never going to be an easy task.
  • ‘Haitians have shown enormous courage in pulling their lives back together after this disaster’
  • ‘I like working as part of a group. We can share the responsibilities and help each other.’
  • ‘A year ago I was depending on other people’s help and living with another family. I felt really bad. But I’m a different person now.’
  • ‘This is a dream come true. I never thought l could own my own house, let alone have the paper to prove it.’
  • ‘Christian Aid is there to help contribute to the efforts to have a Haiti without absolute poverty in 20 years.’

Christian Aid in Haiti
Christian Aid partners in Haiti sprang into action just days after the magnitude 7 earthquake hit, just a few miles from the capital Port-au-Prince.
Working exclusively through local Haitian and Dominican Republic partners we have been able to respond to the huge needs of families who lost their homes, belongings and livelihoods.
Over the past two years, Christian Aid has concentrated its efforts in the rural areas of Haiti, helping families who fled the carnage of Port-au-Prince to seek refuge with families in the countryside.

Homes and livelihoods
Families who lost their homes have now received permanent, hurricane- and earthquake-resistant houses, which provide much needed shelter and security.
Working with communities to solve issues of access to and ownership of land, over 135 families are now living in these houses. 400 more are being built in 2012. Over 10,000 people have received training and support to help them start make a living once more. From livestock and agriculture to artisan crafts and tree saplings, families now have a way to provide for their children and loved ones.

Looking to the future 
Despite the pain and trauma of the past two years, Haitians continue to show extraordinary strength and determination. Our country manager Prospery Raymond says, ‘Christian Aid is there to help contribute to the efforts to have a Haiti without absolute poverty in 20 years.’
Through our work building secure homes and livelihoods across the country, Christian Aid’s work really will bring about a better Haiti in years to come.

Thanks to all supporters and churches who gave so generously during the Haiti earthquake emergency appeal. Your support has made this work possible

More information at www.christianaid.org.uk/emergencies/current/haiti-earthquake-appeal/index.aspx