Different ways to help Haiti

As relief pours into Haiti - that is direct alleviation of medical, hunger/clothing/shelter issues, burial of bodies, prevention of disease - our focus shifts to development and rebuilding.  So many institutions in Haiti have been deeply damaged.  But these institutions are not just the buildings that have collapsed, but are also the people whose relationships and knowledge will provide the building blocks for a future. The survivors are emerging and the focus on rebuilding and development gives them hope in their future.

The question: "How do we work with Haiti and Haitians this time so that it makes a lasting difference and changes the trajectory of their future?" The Rev. Tracy Bruce, rector of St. Johns Glyndon and longtime missioner in Haiti suggests:

To join with Haitians as long-term partners, in an on-going relationship, for the good of our brothers and sisters in Haiti.  It is their country.  They need partners to join them with their dreams.
 
To share in leadership development in a way that honors Haitian culture and their own leadership incentives and models.
 
To focus on becoming resources for and proponents of the articulated goals of those with whom we partner.
 

So many of you have expressed interest in making a contribution for the good of the Haitian people and/or the Episcopal Church ministries there, some specifically for Holy Trinity Music School or St. Etienne's Church, two institutions in Haiti with which St. John's Glyndon has worked closely for many years. John and Jane Payne have worked with the Albert Schweitzer hospital. We would like to make some recommendations.   

For Relief we suggest that you go online to: Episcopal Relief Development.
 
For Rebuilding and Development, checks may be made out to Memorial Episcopal Church noting "Development in Haiti" on the memo line.   

At the end of the month, we will send checks to both the local Episcopal efforts as well as the Schweitzer hospital.