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Stamford, CT, September 22 2004 – AmeriCares is deploying 23,000 pounds of medical and relief supplies to Haiti, following the devastating flooding and loss of life in the wake of Tropical Storm Jeanne.
More than 700 people are dead, one thousand others are missing and many thousands more have been left homeless in the northern city of Gonaives after Jeanne caused severe flooding over the weekend. Officials are reporting that many areas are still under floodwaters and the death toll is expected to rise as the floodwaters recede.
The medical supplies and other relief aid being shipped to Haiti is valued at more than $800,000 and includes antibiotics, analgesics, nutritional supplements, IV solutions, basic first aid supplies, personal hygiene products and clothing.
“The situation is very grim,” said Carol Shattuck, AmeriCares chief administrative officer after meeting with local officials in Port-au-Prince on Monday. “This is the third time in six months we have responded to emergencies in Haiti and this latest crisis poses the threat of disease and widespread illness. The severity of the storm has created a disaster of such magnitude that the need for a quick response here is critical.”
AmeriCares has extensive experience in Haiti, having collaborated for 20 years with the island’s Centres Pour le developpement en la Santé (CDS). Responsible for integrated and comprehensive health and social services throughout the Haiti, CDS operates nine health facilities across the country and partners with other local nonprofit development agencies. AmeriCares has worked with CDS to respond quickly to other disasters in Haiti’s past, most recently the widespread flooding that killed thousands in May, and also supports them with their long-term assistance needs.
AmeriCares has been mobilizing comprehensive relief efforts in response to the hurricane season this year, starting with aid to Florida after Hurricane Charley in August. Earlier this week, AmeriCares deployed more than 34,000 pounds of relief materials valued at $215,000 to Jamaica and Grenada, both of which were hard hit by Hurricane Ivan. These were distributed on both islands through the Adventist Development & Relief Agency (ADRA); on Grenada, the medicines and medical supplies are going to St. George’s Hospital, which has treated hundreds of people injured during the hurricane.To support AmeriCares ongoing relief efforts for the hurricane victims, log onto www.americares.org or call AmeriCares directly at 1-800-486-HELP (4357).