VANCOUVER—Five years have passed since a 7.0 earthquake rattled Haiti, killing more than 230,000 people and leaving more than 1.3 million homeless.
After tragedy hit Jan. 12, 2010, the Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace launched one of its “most extensive” aid efforts.
“It’s still ongoing,” said Ryan Worms, CCODP’s deputy director of in-Canada programs. In 2010, the organization received donations that added up to more than $28 million, including $21 million from the public.
The Archdiocese of Vancouver contributed $1.1 million of that sum, Worms said.
Thanks to the funds, CCODP provided food for 1.2 million people, potable water for 75,310, and temporary shelters for 130,330, according to a press release. They also distributed 18,221 hygiene kits and gave health care and psychosocial support to 102,031.
The organization also made a longer-lasting contribution when it built housing for 470 families, provided 586 water tanks, built a seminary and three schools, and provided a farm to train 500 young workers.
CCODP had programs in place to support farmers in Haiti even before the tragedy. They increased their efforts after the earthquake by handing out agricultural tools to 2,658 and delivering 8,997 farm animals and 38 tonnes of seeds.
Worms said the emergency and reconstruction phases are now complete. “What remains of the funds raised for emergency will go to strengthen the economical sustainability of our partners.”
He expects this phase will last another two years.
CCODP praised its donors for their contributions to reconstruction efforts. “We would like to thank all those across Canada who showed such exceptional generosity toward the people of Haiti following the earthquake.”
