Haiti donations update

Following the devastating earthquake that struck Haiti on January 12, 2010, The Jewish Federations of North America joined together in asking their donors to give to organizations that are able to quickly provide relief efforts to those in need. One of those organizations that we asked you to consider donating to is the Joint Distribution Committee (JDC).  They reported back to us today with a video and some updates:

• As of today, the JDC has raised $5.5 million to aid the victims of the Haiti earthquake.

• JDC is sponsoring 115 water tanks and other water supply projects that will ensure clean drinking water for hundreds of thousands of quake victims living in tent camps.

• JDC helped equip a field hospital and continues to ensure that doctors, nurses, and medicines reach quake victims in Port-au-Prince and in periphery locations such as Leogane and Jacmel where relief has been slow to reach. With JDC support, a series of shipments that began within days of the disaster put mattresses, blankets, tents, and much-needed medical supplies in the hands of local residents.

• To engage and provide psychosocial support for children in tent camps, JDC is funding 10 temporary schools, with instruction by Haitian teachers and university students.

Relief organizations such as IsraAID, American Jewish World Service (AJWS), Partners in Health, and JDC are still in need of donations continue their work in Haiti and to prepare for other disasters.  Please consider making a donation today.