Save the Children Providing Immediate Assistance for Children and Families in Haiti as Tropical Storm Grace Approaches

FAIRFIELD, Conn. (August 16, 2021) – Following the devastating 7.2 magnitude earthquake that leveled parts of western Haiti on Saturday, Save the Children is working to help cover basic needs of the most severely affected children and families.

The international humanitarian organization is conducting a needs assessment in the worst-affected areas of Les Cayes and Grand-Anse to prioritize its emergency response.

Leila Bourahla, Save the Children’s Haiti country director said:

“The loss of life and the destruction are heartbreaking in a country that was already struggling. Our teams in the impacted area are telling us that thousands of children and their families are sleeping outside, as their homes have been destroyed or they fear aftershocks. This leaves them at a risk of violence or abuse, so one of the most urgent needs is safe shelters such as tents. People also need food and clean water to prevent the outbreak of diseases.”

“Right now, we are using our emergency stocks of tarps, jerry cans and baby care kits to provide immediate assistance to 250 affected families. We are preparing to provide cash transfers, child protection, education spaces, health and nutrition assistance, and psychosocial support in the days and weeks ahead.”

“Save the Children will, with other international and local non-profit organizations, make sure that we are providing assistance to those who need it most.”

“Tropical Storm Grace is approaching and likely to produce significant rainfall in earthquake affected areas. We are concerned this storm will complicate access, search and rescue efforts.”

Save the Children has worked in Haiti since 1978, providing nutrition, early learning, and water and sanitation programs. The humanitarian organization responded when Hurricane Matthew struck the same area in 2016, and following the 2010 earthquake.

Donate to the Haiti Earthquake Crisit Relief Fund here.