Haiti
Mass graves, dirty drinking water, homelessness, and insufficient medical supplies are just a few current conditions that come to our minds when thinking of the earthquake and subsequent aftershocks that took place near Haiti’s capitol now 3 1/2 weeks ago.
In light of such overwhelming need, an international response has attempted to understand and reach these needs, writing a story of relief amidst such terrific devastation. Attempting to do the same, we at Coral Ridge also stand, praying that God would use us to aid those within the affected areas.
Invited by Don Warren, founder of Equipping Ministries International, Paul Hurst left for Port-au-Prince on the 28th of January. Their main objective has been to distribute “Clean and Living Water.” Upon arrival the pair began working to hand out Sawyer Water Filtration to EE Pastors working at 40 to 60 different churches in Haiti. At an orphanage outside Port-au-prince, Don Warren and Paul Hurst have been sleeping in tents, waking mornings to acquaint themselves with a group of people in dire need of such a basic and irreplaceable resource as clean water.
Joining with workers already on the ground in the greater Port-au-Prince region, Barney Koenig has been working to deliver first aid, shoes, and clothes donated to Coral Ridge by members in the weeks surrounding the quake. Perhaps what is most amazing to all involved is the speed at which needs can be met in Haiti. What was 600 lbs. of rice and black beans on a shelf at a Miami GFS on Tuesday of this week was a warm meal on Thursday morning for orphaned children. In addition, 50 Sawyer Water filters each pumping near 500 gallons of bacteria/protozoa free water, 200 servings of oatmeal, 30 lbs. of dried milk, and 10 cases of diapers were delivered alongside the rice and beans.
Lastly, we have seen a great effort by the congregation to partner with GCA (Great Commission Alliance) in the work they are doing in Haiti. Individuals filled rooms in the church with clothes, food, toys, blankets and many needed items. All of the items are on their way down to Haiti because of the work that is being done by GCA. Last year 30 people from our church worked with GCA in Haiti. They spent a week visiting 10 orphanages providing medical supplies and needed medical attention for the children. This year we will partner together in the face of a tragedy to reach the needs of many who have little hope.
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We at Coral Ridge were given the opportunity to put our hands directly into the work of meeting the needs of those affected by the recent 7.0 magnitude earthquake in Haiti. By providing the means to quality water filtration, dependable meals, and other supplies for grieving men women, and children God has enabled us to proclaim the good news of a King that meets real needs and the reality of an imminent Kingdom that he is allowing us to take part in building.
Please contact the Outreach Department if you have questions about how to support the work we are doing in Haiti.
