On August 14, 2021, the people of Haiti endured yet another devastating earthquake, killing at least 2,000 people and leaving more than 12,000 injured. Thousands are now without homes, food, or shelter, and critical infrastructure has been completely destroyed. UNICEF reports around 1.2 million, including 540,000 children, are in need of urgent humanitarian support.

There is limited access to medical services for the thousands of people injured. At least 25 health facilities were affected by the devastating earthquake – four were destroyed and 21 damaged. Emergency health care and primary health services are critically needed at this time.

Humanitarian organizations are working to supply essential food, medical supplies, and shelter in the aftermath of the earthquake. Haitian-led organizations are at the forefront of the humanitarian response. However, damaged infrastructure, the impact of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, and Tropical Storm Grace are making it difficult to deliver the critical assistance that is needed.

Support for the people of Haiti is essential during this acute crisis. MedGlobal is coordinating with frontline public hospitals and health centers in Jeremie, Haiti to see how best we can support their emergency medical response. Medical supplies, medications, and equipment are all critical. As we coordinate our response, please consider giving to organizations currently on-the-ground providing emergency relief. Here are resources to get you started:

• Charity Navigator recommends supporting these organizations responding to the crisis in Haiti: Direct Relief, Haitian Health Foundation, International Relief Teams, Medical Teams International, Project HOPE, Team Rubicon, and Americares.
• PBS NewsHour recommends supporting these organizations responding to the crisis in Haiti: UNICEF, Project HOPE, Hope for Haiti, Save the Children, World Vision, Catholic Relief Services, The Greater Miami Jewish Federation’s relief fund, and Operation Helping Hands from The United Way.
• CNN’s “Impact Your World” is collecting donations to benefit 29 humanitarian organizations providing assistance in Haiti.
• Consider giving directly to Haitian-led organizations and mutual aid – a few of these organizations recommended by our public health partners include Haiti Emergency Relief Fund, Haitian Global Health Alliance in Support of GHESKIO, Economic Stimulus Projects for Work and Action (ESPWA) through their Earthquake Solidarity Project 4 Haiti by Haitians, Hope for Haiti, Little Footprints, Big Steps, and Locally Haiti.