Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Jan 19, 2010 / 18:24 pm
Despite numerous obstacles, Catholic Relief Services (CRS) has continued its relief efforts in Haiti after the catastrophic earthquake that left tens of thousands dead and even more homeless and without basic necessities.
“It may look to many in the rest of the world that those in need are not receiving any aid, but actually thousands here in Port-au-Prince have gotten help,” says Karel Zelenka, CRS country representative.
“It must be understood that the apocalypse occurred in a place where there was hardly any infrastructure before – hence the huge logistical challenges,” he added.
CRS, which has committed $25 million to the relief efforts and received $13 million in cash donations, is working with the Pontifical Council “Cor Unum,” the U.N and the international Catholic charity Caritas – of which CRS is a branch – to provide assistance to the Haitian community.