In the first hours after a powerful earthquake struck Haiti in August 2021 — ultimately causing more than 2,200 deaths, destroying tens of thousands of homes, and decimating essential infrastructure — UNICEF was at the forefront of emergency response efforts. Teams on the ground rushed critically needed safe water, Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food, health services and other lifesaving support to children in need.
But Haiti is nowhere near recovered. Now, two years later, the country is still reeling as resources remain limited, political turmoil and violence are escalating, cholera has resurged and compounding crises are complicating recovery. Despite extreme challenges, UNICEF remains there for children.
Here are five ways UNICEF is sustaining emergency response in Haiti:
- With malnutrition rising across Haiti, UNICEF is ensuring that a steady supply of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) helps children recover and thrive.
- After more than three years without a reported case, cholera has resurfaced. UNICEF teams and partners are improving access to safe water, vaccinating children and distributing supplies to fight the spread of the disease.
- Gang violence — and direct attacks on schools and children — have decimated education. In an effort to keep kids learning, UNICEF is supporting safe spaces for education and providing learning supplies for out-of-school children.
- UNICEF continues to make sure that children receive psychosocial support as mounting crises threaten children’s mental health and well-being.
- In addition to supporting earthquake recovery efforts and rebuilding essential services, UNICEF is working to increase preparedness ahead of the upcoming hurricane season.
UNICEF’s relief efforts in Haiti are a reflection of the kind of lasting emergency response teams deliver in crisis situations around the world. We’ll continue to keep you informed on the progress UNICEF is making.
For now, learn more about the recovery in Haiti >>
Thank you for all of your support — and be on the lookout for an opportunity to strengthen UNICEF’s global emergency response tomorrow!
UNICEF USA
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