VERMONT HAITI PROJECT NEWS

     Thousands of homes and businesses were destroyed by the January 12, 2010 earthquake that centered near Port au Prince.  Additionally, many residents and store owners have refused to re-enter their dwellings, out of fear of instability, or a subsequent quake.
     The result is that many Haitians now find themselves living and working in tents-- at least until they are assured a safe return into their dwelling.  To assist, VHP has enlisted the generous support of Phillip Aaronson to help raise funds for the purpose of temporary shelter.
     Aaronson reports on a delivery made to the VHP-supported Ecole Foyer Despoir:

Dear Friends and Family,

     Yesterday I was finally able to get some photos of the distribution of the tents, mosquito nets and tarps in Port-au-Prince.  You will see that some of the tarps were used to set up makeshift classrooms for a school.  The tents were distributed to people in the neighborhood by the Maudé family that runs the school and cares for many children.  I have met Maria and Ysmay and some of their extended family.  They told me that the tents were received with much joy and excitement.

     It has been a privilege to be in a position to lend a helping hand in a time of dire need.  You all made it possible and on behalf of all the people who benefitted from your generosity, I send a heartfelt thank you, with special thanks to Kimball Butler and all the other dedicated volunteers at the Vermont Haiti Project, who asked me back in January if I could find tents, and without whom this would not have been possible.

With blessings,
Phil