 |
|
 |
 |
|
 |
 |
|
USAID Information:
External Links:
|
|
 |
 |
|
U.S. Providing Disaster Relief to Haiti
WASHINGTON, DC 20523
PRESS OFFICE
http://www.usaid.gov/
Press: (202) 712-4320
Public Information: (202) 712-4810
2004-085
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 21, 2004
Contact: USAID Press Office
WASHINGTON, DC - On September 18, 2004, Tropical Storm Jeanne passed near the northern coast of Haiti, resulting in heavy rain, mudslides, and severe flooding, particularly in the coastal areas of Gonaïves in Artibonite Department and Port-de-Paix in North-West Department. Unconfirmed reports indicate that the floods have killed more than 600 people, and the number will likely rise as recovery efforts continue and access to isolated areas is increased. In addition, the U.N. World Food Program (WFP) reports that 80 percent of Gonaïves and 30 percent of Port-de-Paix are flooded.
On September 21, 2004, U.S. Ambassador James Foley issued a disaster declaration due to the damage caused by Tropical Storm Jeanne. In response, USAID is providing $50,000 to CARE to distribute hygiene kits, cooking sets, blankets, water containers and other relief supplies to those most affected by the floods. USAID has dispatched a two-person team from the Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance to help coordinate the United States relief efforts with local disaster officials. USAID has also secured an aircraft through Air Serv International to provide aerial assessments and transport of personnel and relief supplies.
The most effective way to help is to make cash contributions to humanitarian organizations that are conducting relief operations. A list of such organizations can be found at http://hurricane.info.usaid.gov
USAID will continue to monitor the situation in Haiti, as well as other areas Tropical Storm Jeanne has affected, and will provide additional support based on damage assessments. For more information on USAID's ongoing efforts in Haiti, please visit www.usaid.gov.
The U.S. Agency for International Development has provided economic and humanitarian assistance worldwide for more than 40 years.
Back to Top ^
|