As many of you know, a 5.9 magnitude earthquake hit Port-de-Paix, Haiti, Saturday evening, followed by a 5.2 magnitude aftershock on Sunday afternoon.
One of our sewing programs is in Port-de-Paix so we're getting first-hand reports from our staff and mission partner, Waves of Mercy, about the situation.
Many homes have been damaged in the area near the sewing school, but the school itself, has not suffered any damage that we know of. It seems that much of the damage in this area is from interior or exterior wall collapses, like in the photo below.
From what we have heard, our students and staff are safe, although some may have suffered damage to their homes.
Fear is in the air. Many people are sleeping outside on their porches, because they are afraid to go into their homes for fear that they might collapse or another earthquake. Many people are also afraid that a tsunami might strike. Some people have taken their belongings and moved to higher ground.
Our mission partner, Waves of Mercy, has been treating the wounded since it happened. Since many families are sleeping outside, they've seen an increase in children and adults who are sick with fevers and congestion, and unfortunately, they've run out of medicine to treat them.
If you'd like to help, please consider making a donation directly to Waves of Mercy so they can purchase needed medicines and supplies to take care of the people in this area. Your donation of $10 (or more) can buy medicine, like antibiotics, which can literally save someone's life.
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In situations like this, time is of the essence, so here's two ways you can donate today:
Online securely via PayPal: https://www.mercysaves.org/donate
Or via mail: Waves of Mercy - PO Box 516 - Versailles, KY 40383.
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If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to message us via messenger or email Michelle at msmith@haiti323project.org. Our mission partner, Waves of Mercy (www.mercysaves.org), has been in Haiti for over 40 years. This isn't their first disaster, and it likely won't be the last.They know how to help, and we have full confidence in them.
Please pray for peace and healing for those who have been impacted by this earthquake. Pray for God to calm their hearts, and take away their fear and anxiety. Please also pray for strength and courage for those on the front-lines - the disaster teams, the medical teams, the missionaries, and various organizations/agencies - that are working tirelessly to help.
Thank you very much for helping the people of Haiti, and for your continued prayers.