Haiti Relief from Kamloops!

The Haitian government now estimates that approximately 200,000 people have died and about 70,000 bodies have been buried in mass graves throughout the country.

 The Bridge Church is already helping to make a difference on the ground. A five-member assessment team from our national convention landed in the Dominican Republic yesterday January 18, and currently is driving to Haiti to survey the situation and develop a strategic response. A separate Florida Baptist assessment team already is on the ground in Haiti, and a team of Southern Baptist missionaries is helping at a medical clinic in Jimani, Dominican Republic, on the border with Haiti. A seven-member medical team from North Carolina Baptist Men also is in Haiti at this very moment and another 10-member team from the state left today, January 19.

I have been informed that an initial $150,000 has been released from our convention’s emergency disaster relief fund but the total cost of relief efforts is expected to be much higher. These funds are currently purchasing water, food, and supplies –and to fund the transportation and other costs associated with getting emergency personnel on the ground in Haiti.

According to early reports from our denominational assessment team volunteers may be able to enter Haiti as early as January 25th to begin clean-up, distribution of supplies, temporary and permanent reconstruction, medical care and counseling. Later, educational and microenterprise teams will be needed to help the Haitian people resume their lives and work.

Keep praying and giving, Bridge Church!