On January 12th, 2010, Haiti was truck by a deadly earthquake that caused grave losses. Hundreds of thousands of people lost their lives, and as many were injured. Houses were destroyed, schools decimated, and hospitals rendered unusable. Haiti was devastated and the losses surpassed the country’s GDP.
Facing new challenges
Even as Haiti recovered from the earthquake, it was further weakened by political instability and the impacts of climate change.
The country is considered one of the most vulnerable to natural disasters and has confronted three major hurricanes (Sandy, Matthew and Irma), a cholera epidemic, as well as terrible episodes of drought and flooding.
In addition, corruption and government inefficiency have paralyzed the country, which makes it particularly difficult for isolated communities to have access to services.
The support of Development and Peace – Caritas Canada
We have been working amongst the most vulnerable communities in Haiti since 1972.
Thanks to our partnerships in the country, we were able to quickly to the earthquake and extend the scope of our activities to support those most affected. At the end of our reconstruction program in 2015, we consolidated our efforts to ensure a continuity and build on the gains made, while also taking into account the new challenges facing the populations.
Our vision is that all Haitians can live in dignity.
In numbers
- $31,083,017 has been invested in humanitarian and community development projects
- 1.2 million people received food aid
- 102 849 people received health care and psychosocial support
- 563 houses were built or repaired
To learn more about our work, read our report: Haiti, 10 years after the earthquake
