ELLINWOOD — Hurricane Sandy has caused severe damage to nine communities in Haiti where Star of Hope has projects. Torrential rain fell for more than 24 hours resulting in flash flooding, landslides and rivers overflowing their banks. Reports of impassable roads, loss of crops and livestock are widespread throughout rural Haiti.
Star of Hope’s school in Hesse is reported to have lost part of the roof over the dining area. In the high mountain area southeast of Port-au-Prince the brand new school building in Bois Negresse has roof damage. In addition trees are reported down some taking homes with them. Damage reports from Dano and Marigot and the other places Star of Hope has projects, are being received.
Star of Hope staff members Tony Boursiquot and his wife were unable to leave their home on Thursday except on foot. The roads were completely flooded and impassable in their community near the Port-au-Prince airport.
Star of Hope continues evaluation Friday to determine the extent of the damage caused by the storm. Disaster recovery will be targeted to those who truly need it and are incapable of recovering without the help of others.
Star of Hope has it United State headquarters in Ellinwood.
The 3,500 children in Star of Hope projects are the most affected by these repeated disasters. Their childhood is being taken from them. Individuals can help. For those who sponsor a child in Haiti, now would be a good time to write a note of encouragement. Those who are not yet a sponsor, now is a good time to start. A child living through this tragedy would be so encouraged to learn of someone who cares enough to sponsor them.
Donations are also being solicited to assist in the response to the disaster. Donations may be made through their website www.starofhope.us or by phone at (866) 653-0321.
Star of Hope is a nonprofit organization with projects across the world in seventeen countries.