Haiti - 4 Years Later

This past Sunday, January 12th, marked the 4 year anniversary of the horrific earthquake that shattered much of the area of Port au Prince and surrounding communities. Whether one believes that the number who perished was 250,000 or 300,000 isn't the issue. The issue is that the harm was monumental as are the daunting tasks that lie ahead.

Though large parts of the capital have not been rebuilt along with many federal government buildings, there is much to be thankful for in a country that has a past of abject poverty, corruption and political turmoil.

Michel Martelly has brought a sense of stability to the country despite protests of not doing enough to rebuild. A good number of countries and NGO's have long since left the Caribbean nation. In spite of various setbacks, including the outbreak of cholera and the international community not ponying up the promised $9 billion, there is a sense of progress.

Most of the 1.5 million citizens that were in tented camps are no longer living in such conditions though adequate housing/sanitation/clean water remains a critical problem. New schools and small businesses are being created and these small but significant steps are vital to the long term hopes of the country.

As long as groups such as Kids4Good (which spearheaded many efforts) and Global Hope are out there and working under the radar, then people will see a better day. These groups have, since the earthquake, have brought IMN School back to life and within the past few months have installed modern toilets and washrooms to the school. Along with a new building and clean drinking water, the washrooms are a god send.

All in all, though the future is one fraught with much to accomplish, progress has been and will continue to be made.

Dick