February 2011

In the days following last month’s devastating earthquake in Haiti, one could not help but be overwhelmed with sadness. Images of broken bodies, ruined homes, and shattered lives covered our television screens. I must admit that even though I am a man of faith, I couldn’t help but ask the question “why?” How could something this terrible happen to a country already plagued by suffering?

You see, I believe that God’s love is a powerful, all-encompassing love. He performs miracles each and every day. And though the situation in Haiti is devastating, that’s exactly what He continues to do—perform miracles.

Unbelievable compassion and generosity has poured in from CBM friends around the world allowing us to serve those in critical need of help. CBM was in Haiti in the days right after the earthquake, providing for victims’ immediate needs. But our work didn’t end there. Now, over a month later, our work is really just beginning.

One group of people in particular need of help is children. In fact, experts estimate that 50% of those injured in the earthquake are children. Like me, I know you’ve seen the disturbing reports of the increasing problem of child trafficking Haiti. Amid the chaos in this country, children are more vulnerable than ever before.

The sad truth of the matter is that children with disabilities—both those with pre-existing disabilities and those with new disabilities as a result of the earthquake—are even more at risk. 

That’s why I’m so proud of the work CBM is doing in Haiti. With long-time partner in Haiti, Centre d’Education Specialise, and ChildFund, an organization with extensive experience in creating child-centered spaces during emergencies, CBM-US is leading a project to create 10 child daycare centers for vulnerable children. These centers will target 10 affected communities in the capital of Port-au-Prince and will enroll 1200 children with disabilities and injuries. Here, children will have a safe place to stay and will receive education, rehabilitation, and psychosocial support. 

These daycare centers are much-needed for children with disabilities, but they also provide an additional benefit to their mothers as well. Just the knowledge that their children are in a safe place is a true blessing for these mothers. Now, they are free to look for work, finding ways to earn livelihood and slowly piece their lives back together.

CBM will work closely with the Haiti Ministry of Health and other government agencies to assure the children’s whereabouts are known, keep their parents involved, and make sure the children don’t fall into the wrong hands. Through our medical assistance, counseling, coordination with appropriate government agencies, and rehabilitation we hope the children will be able to pursue rich, full lives.

I hope that you’ll continue to join with us in praying for all of those affected by this unimaginable tragedy. I also hope that you will follow our progress in the months ahead. There is much to do, but I know that through your continued partnership we can make a real difference for the people of Haiti.