THE Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) continues to respond to the earthquake in Haiti, moving from a disaster relief phase to a multi-year, multi-million dollar rebuilding phase.

New energy is now being given to rebuilding homes, economic development, food security, education and more.

“People responded generously and with compassion when the earthquake first struck. These funds are being used to provide Haitians with much needed immediate food and water, canned meat and relief kits,” said Wayne Bremner, executive director for MCC BC. “But the devastation in Haiti is of such a magnitude that it will take several years to rebuild homes and livelihoods of Haitians.”

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In North America, MCC has raised more than $12 million and is still appealing for funds to assist with short term relief and long term recovery efforts. MCC will need millions of dollars to rebuild thousands of homes. Food security and economic development are also a priority.

“What is important to remember is that there was essentially a disaster in Haiti before the earthquake struck,” Bremner said. “Haiti is still the poorest nation in the western hemisphere, which not only added to the magnitude of the disaster but also adds to the magnitude of the recovery and rebuilding efforts.”

Contact: 1.888.622.6337 or donate.mcc.org.

– Angelika Dawson

May 2010