A 7.2 earthquake hit Haiti on Saturday, August 14, causing extensive damage, injuries and death throughout the southern peninsula of Haiti.  Unlike the 2010 earthquake, this one was centered much closer to les Cayes (Haiti's third largest city).  HELO sustained structural damage to several buildings, including our transitional home and all three schools.  Thankfully only one injury, which is not serious.  Berlin fell while fleeing the collapsing building, sustaining a dislocated shoulder and many lacerations and bruises.  We are still assessing the structural damage so do not yet have an idea of the cost to repair and rebuild.  Our priorities this past week have been to safeguard the children, who are too traumatized to sleep indoors.  Aftershocks continue, but we were finally able to convince them to sleep in the church building (tin roof) amidst the heavy rain and wind from Tropical Storm Grace.  We have 24 hour security on campus to protect the children, staff and property during this crisis.  

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The community of Laborde, where HELO is located, is heavily impacted and many families have lost everything.  Nearly everyone is sleeping outside under the stars -- or sadly under the rainfall, some out of fear but many do not have a choice.  Our children will assist in distributing food to help our neighbors in need.  

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If you are able to help, please donate.  Funds raised will help us rebuild, get needed food, drinking water, and other supplies, and do our best to help our neighbors.  We sincerely thank everyone who has already donated and especially thank everyone for their prayers.  Your support is appreciated more than words can express.  To quote a Haitian proverb, "Men anpil fe chay pa lou."  Many hands lighten the load.  Mesi!  Thank you!

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