Hello Neighbors,
As I am sure you have seen on the news: a devastating earthquake has
hit the small island nation of Haiti. This country was already the
poorest nation is the Western Hemisphere. As you can imagine the
recovery effort will be long and difficult.
What you may not know is that in Pittsburgh there are many
non-profits and churches that have been working in Haiti for many
years. Many of us, myself included, have colleagues/friends from which
we have not yet had any word. This is a trying time for those of us who
have friends in Haiti, who have worked in Haiti, and whose hearts were
already broken for Haiti before this disaster.
For those who are searching for something to "do," I encourage
you to find a local connection to Haiti. The many already
established organizations will be able to assess the needs in their
work areas. For those wanting to give donations, finding a local
connection helps to ensure that money is used wisely and rapidly.
The organization for which I serve on the Executive Board will, like
virtually every other organization in Haiti, be adversely affected by
this natural disaster. The hospital nearest our work area was confirmed
collapsed and there is no word of any medical teams working in our area
(which according to NYT sources received greater intensity shocks than
Port Au Prince).
I direct your also to our website: haitifundinc.org or local
website: thirdchurch.org
Further, I welcome questions/comments and again, encourage those of you
wishing to become involved to seek out local Pittsburgh connections.
There are many agencies doing good work (everything from work in
schools and hospitals to reforestation) in Haiti. These agencies will
be able to give accurate information throughout the recover effort.
Thank you for your support, dear neighborhood.
>From our neighborhood to our neighbors in Haiti,
Blessings,
Michelle
Rev. Michelle L. Wahila
Associate Pastor
Third Presbyterian Church
5701 Fifth Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
www.thirdchurch.org
michelle@thirdchurch.org
412.661.4710