Development and Peace receives donations for emergency relief in Haiti

September 8, 2008 - In response to the catastrophic impact of the series of tropical storms that have devastated Haiti, Development and Peace is asking the Canadian public to contribute funds for emergency relief and reconstruction in the country. The latest storm, Ike, hit the small country on September 7, particularly affecting the city of Gonaives, which was already badly flooded by storms Hanna, Fay and Gustav. The current death toll is estimated at 630, with about 650,000 Haitians awaiting aid in precarious conditions. Other storms are expected later this week. Development and Peace has already committed $ 50,000 to Caritas Haiti. Caritas plans to provide at least 4000 people with access to fresh water and sanitation, build five shelter camps and rebuild 500 homes. According to staff in the field, the storms have wiped out much of the east of the country, leaving people without food, water or shelter should more storms hit.

"We are extremely concerned because Haiti is particularly vulnerable to this type of disaster" says Anne Catherine Kennedy, Programme Officer for Haiti at Development and Peace. "Deforestation and erosion, linked to extreme poverty, has led to the construction of substandard homes, which are easily swept away during flash floods and wind storms. This year, the food riots in May and the political crisis from April to September have amplified the challenges already facing the population."

"Last week, we were hit by Tropical Storm Gustav, which caused serious damage. This time it is Tropical Storm Hanna that caused a catastrophe. Almost ten departments in the country have been affected. It is the first time in our lives that we see something like this," said on September 5 Philogène Deslourdes, from the Papaye Peasant's Movement (MPP), a Development and Peace partner.

Development and Peace's partners in Haiti are currently assessing the needs of the victims and preparing a response. The organisations were active in the emergency and reconstruction process after Tropical Storm Jeanne killed over 3,000 in the Gonaives periphery in September, 2004. At the time, the Canadian public contributed $ 1,860,000 to Development and Peace in support of their projects.

Those wishing to contribute to emergency relief in Haiti are invited to call toll free at:1 888 664-3387 or visit DEVELOPMENT AND PEACE's website.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Eleonore Fournier-Tombs 514 257-8711 ext. 307 efournier@devp.org