It has been six months since an earthquake reaching 7.0 on the Richter scale hit Port au Prince, the capital of Haiti. Billions of dollars pledged by major donors is still to arrive. Those who lost their homes and those whose houses are branded not livable anymore are stranded in either tent camps or have been forced to live in the ruins left behind by the earthquake.

The most vulnerable among those left suffering for the past six months are women and children. According to the various reports, nearly half a million (0.5 Million) children are still at risk and living in extremely difficult conditions in the camps. This is not only affecting them physically but mentally as well, and could leave a number of these children with life time trauma. During the hurricane season, a major catastrophe could occur, adding to the miseries of these women and children and increasing the difficulties faces by aid agencies attempting to deliver necessary services.

“We are focused on providing as much relief as we can to the children of Haiti. We have designed a programme for children living in the camps, which will offer them safe play areas and the opportunity to mingle with the local communities at a local education center run by the Haitian Project. Through this programme, children will have some relief from the tough living conditions within the camps, be able to play in safe child friendly environment, learn through educational activities and participate in community activities such as garbage collection, as well as being fed on a daily basis.” said Anjum Tahirkheli (CEO – Basic Human Rights).

Anjum further explains: “During my visit to the camps in Port au Prince I observed that the children are the ones who are suffering both physically and mentally. At such a young age, they have witnessed one of the most devastating catastrophes in history. Therefore, they need immediate extra care. They need help in coming to terms with the trauma that they have suffered. I urge the aid agencies and donors to focus mainly on women and children, as they are the future of Haiti.”

 

Earlier this year, Basic Human Rights organised a fundraising dinner supported by football ace Rio Ferdinand. All funds raised so far are to be spent on the child friendly programme. The charity has not reached its minimum targeted figure and is therefore in urgent need of financial support. To donate log on to http://www.basichumanrights.org.uk/online_donations.php