A devastating earthquake struck Haiti on August 14th. This natural disaster not only left nearly 2,000 people dead, but it also injured thousands more. Furthermore, many have been displaced from their homes as a result of this occurrence. The 7.2 magnitude earthquake caused massive destruction, and took place about a month after the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse. It also occurred in the context of an ongoing worldwide pandemic and a tropical storm, which hit the Caribbean nation days after the earthquake.
Primarily, the southwestern part of the country was affected by this natural phenomenon. The epicenter of the earthquake was located nearly 80 miles from the nation’s capital, Port-au-Prince. Around ten years ago, a massive earthquake hit closer to the capital, killing over 200,000 people. Although such a catastrophic earthquake raises an enormous public concern, is there anything we can do to help the people of Haiti in the aftermath of a natural disaster?
First of all, we can assist with delivering adequate aid that responds to the needs of Haitians and their regions. This includes sending rescue teams composed of healthcare personnel and first responders. Furthermore, we can donate medical supplies, clothes or food. Additionally, we can provide them with mental health counseling. Whatever we do, we should only look forward to giving assistance to the people in need to benefit the victims.
Despite the fact that immediate assistance is pivotal, we also need to be committed to recovery efforts. Long-term underlying issues require years of consistent aid. This includes the establishment of policies that ensure economic and political stability for the nation. We must do more than hope for the best. We must stand up for those who are in desperate need of help. We should donate. We should get out there. We should think about Haiti’s future, not just focus on the nation’s present.