Six months has passed since the capital of Haiti, Port-au-Prince was decimated by the earthquake.   Six very long and difficult months for the Haitian people, but thanks to the generousity and support from countries in Europe and Asia, as well as North and South America progress is being made.   Support has come in many ways to the people of Haiti – large amounts of money, personnel and equipment is currently being coordinated by organizations such as the UN, Red Cross and others who have the experience and man power to face this immense clean up and recovery challenge.

There is a concerted effort, both by the Haitian government and the outside agencies to ensure that the Haitian people have the majority  of control of their recovery efforts.   One example is that donated food has been limited.  It is extremely important that the Haitian people begin to once again grow their own food supplies and by limiting the “handouts” it will encourage Haitians to strive for self sufficiency.      Criticism is always around in times of great crisis, but Rayjon Share Care supports and approves of the many recovery efforts that the Haitian people are making.

Rayjon Share Care is very grateful for the many donations from our caring and compassionate supporters.    These donations have allowed Rayjon to play an important and vital role in assisting the Haitian people in this recovery effort.

Some highlights over the past six months include:

• The Rayjon staff from St. Marc has made regular trips to Port-au-Prince to conduct medical clinics in support of the hospitals there.
• .We continue to support the rebuilding of the road to Gilbert which will enable the people from Gilbert to get their produce to market in St. Marc while helping to employ refugees from the earthquake zone.
• The Rayjon staff is continuing to care for many orphans from the earthquake until permanent placement can be found for them.
• Rayjon schools and clinics are open and seeing an increase in attendance caused by the refugees.
• There is also a large increase in activity at the nutrition centre in Cap Haitien.
• Rayjon is supporting the opening of several new classrooms and assisting with repairs to the existing centre.  This will increase the Haitians’ capacity, while also providing employment to the large influx of refugees from the earthquake area.

Rayjon’s commitment to the Haitian people has never wavered in the face of this tragedy.  We remain stalwart in our approach to helping the people of Haiti recovery from their incredible losses.

We are currently making plans to connect with more Haitian partners.  New collaborations and partnerships with like minded NGO’s located in Haiti will give  Rayjon the contacts and leverage needed to encourage and support the Haitian people in the very difficult journey  of becoming a self sufficient and healthier  country.

We are also planning more awareness trips to visit the sites that Rayjon supports and perhaps some sites that we might consider supporting with your donations.

Once again, our heartfelt thanks to our donors and supporters who continue to give with generous and open hearts.   With great thanks to all!

Den Shannon

Chair, Rayjon Share Care