The wake of a disaster, like last week’s earthquake that shook Haiti to the core, can reveal the very best of humankind. Over the last few days tradespeople, celebrities, politicians and poets have rallied together to raise funds and resources for the people impacted by Haiti’s emergency. If you have already made a simple online donation and want to join the band of people doing that bit more, read on for 5 different ways to help Haiti.
Hold a Big Night In
Get on the blower and invite your friends round for a film night, a craft session, an acoustic jam or a Wii party. Ask everyone to donate to Haiti on this Big Night In what they would ordinarily spend on a Big Night Out. Going to the cinema equals a good 12 quid in my hood, club entry could set you back £20 and a slap up meal easily £30.
Write to your local newspaper
It could well be that in a few days the public interest in Haiti might fade away. It is paramount that attention remain on Haiti so that the needs of vulnerable people get met. Spend a few moments writing to the editor of your local newspaper with some new facts about the disaster and some of your own thoughts. For help with this, and to let us know about it, please get in touch with our Media Campaigner Lisa.
Shake a Tin
We have a local volunteer who, within hours of an emergency, manages to organise some collections in Tube Stations across London. He and his team regularly gather thousands and thousands of pounds that go straight to the heart of the disaster. This is not a tricky thing to do and if you know some people you can get involved could be easily arranged. Get in touch with Lucy to find out how to organise a collection in your own neighbourhood.
Ask for the cancellation of Haitian debt
Take one minute to ask for the cancellation of Haitian debt. It would be devastating if Haiti had to work through the aftermath of this disaster under the burden of their huge, historical debt. Email the Head of IMF to make sure the debt gets dropped.
Do the thing you love
Take 5 minutes to think about how you can use your own hobby or interests to raise funds or awareness for the people of Haiti. Nothing is more fabulous than people using the thing they are passionate about to do good. For example, lots of artists are selling off work on Ebay to raise money for Haiti and auctioned it off, some bloggers organised a Bloggers Day of Action for Haiti and a tribe of dancers are holding a Haiti Dance Off. If you have any ideas and would like some support from us, do get in touch.