Wahroonga, New South Wales - The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) is on the ground in Haiti preparing an immediate relief response, following a massive 7.0 magnitude earthquake that destroyed large portions of Port-au-Prince on January 12 local time. ADRA Australia will contribute urgently-needed funds to support the response and relief efforts.
ADRA has been in Haiti for more than 30 years and is working with government and other partners to evaluate and respond to the effects of the disaster. It will work with affected communities to determine how best to support their response efforts. ADRA has already procured millions of water purification tablets, and is continuing to source food, generators, tents and medicines.
"This is a significant disaster, which has had a devastating impact on the people, and our thoughts and prayers are with those affected," said ADRA Australia's Director of Emergency Management, Chris Olafson. "We are working with relevant partners in the area, including government response agencies, United Nations agencies and other non-government organisations, to assist the people and help them recover from such a terrible disaster."
From its extensive experience in relief and development, ADRA knows that to respond to a disaster of this magnitude it will require at least US$1 million in the long-term to help communities rebuild. However, in the short-term, the ADRA network urgently needs $500,000 in the next 7 days.
ADRA Australia has opened a Haiti Earthquake Appeal and is calling for support for their response efforts in the region. Donations can be made to ADRA Australia by calling 1800 242 372 or visiting www.adra.org.au. Donations to ADRA Australia's Haiti Earthquake Appeal will be used to support the immediate disaster response and recovery efforts in the area. If the appeal raises more funds than are immediately needed, donations will be allocated to ADRA Australia's ongoing emergency management activities.