Remembering Haiti

Even before the devastating earthquake in January 2010, Haiti was considered one of the poorest countries in the world, and the poorest nation in the western hemisphere. Slavery, prostitution, abandonment to the street, malnutrition, and early death due to poor medical care, abuse, and prenatal neglect are among some of the horrifying conditions affecting the children of Haiti.

The 7.0 magnitude earthquake that shook the region on January 12, 2010 further devastated the condition of the island nation. An estimated three million people were affected by the quake. The Haitian Government reports that approximately 230,000 people were killed, 300,000 were injured, and 1,000,000 were made homeless. Millions were left in desperate need of basic physical necessities, and thousands of children were orphaned or abandoned.

July 2010 marked the 6 month anniversary of the devastating earthquake, and unfortunately, little has changed in Haiti. As much as 98% of the rubble from the quake remains un-cleared. Thousands of bodies still remain in the debris. The number of people in relief camps and tent cities remains approximately 1.6 million. Most of these camps have no electricity, running water, or sewage disposal. Crime in the camps is widespread, especially against women and girls. CNN recently reported, “it looks like the quake just happened yesterday,” and Imogen Wall, spokeswoman for the United Nations Office of Humanitarian Affairs in Haiti, predicts that six months from now Haiti may unfortunately look the same.

In light of this, I implore families not to forget Haiti, especially those considering international adoption. Precise qualifications and length of process time often deter prospective adoptive families from considering Haiti as a viable option. However, as program coordinator, I want to reiterate the feasibility of pursuing a Haitian adoption, especially for couples over the age of 35. I strongly encourage families to research this program, whether by checking out our website at www.lifelineadoption.org, emailing me at laura.hausen@lifelineadoption.org or calling me at (205) 972-8480. Haiti is, now more than ever, in such great need of loving families willing to accept orphaned and abandoned children into their homes.

Ultimately, my purpose in writing this is to remind readers of the seriousness of Haiti’s condition and the urgency we should still feel as believers to aid in this cause. My simple request is to please remember Haiti. Remember Haiti in your minds, hearts, and prayers. Remember Haiti in the giving of your time, money, and other resources. And please remember Haiti if you are a family looking to adopt a precious child in immense need of a loving Christian home.

Laura Hausen
International Social Worker