On the morning of Saturday, August 14, Haiti was struck by a severe earthquake. Precious lives have been lost. Many homes and community buildings have been destroyed. Hospitals have also been damaged, and acutely injured and traumatized people are struggling to find help.

The earthquake follows sharply on the heels of other disasters, including a massive earthquake in 2010 and Hurricane Matthew in 2016. To make the situation even worse, Tropical Storm Grace hit Haiti on August 16.

The impact of the most recent earthquake is all the more devastating because of political instability, a severe economic downturn, and the COVID-19 pandemic. In the face of the current political crisis, Haitian citizens are working to create an agreement to facilitate a successful interim government to build a different future for their country.

The United Church of Canada is in contact with Mission & Service partners in Haiti to find out how we can support their communities. Already, we know that the people of Haiti need emergency shelter, clean water, and food. The church has made it possible for members to designate donations to help Haiti when they make a gift through a special emergency fund.

Please hold the people of Haiti in prayer.

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Your Generosity Matters is a feature story series of the Mission and Service program of the United Church of Canada. Watch for monthly stories about how your contributions to the M&S fund are making a difference. You can find them by visiting the Mission & Service page at haliburtonpastoralcharge.com or signing up to get our posts by email.

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