As the clean-up operation in Haiti continues, Caroline Gluck reports on Oxfam’s latest initiative and a miraculous birth in one of Haiti’s most devastated communities.
The neighbourhood of Baillergeau in the Carrefour Feuille suburb of Port-au-Prince is one of the most devastated communities I’ve visited in the last two weeks. Densely packed, it’s also extremely poor. Around 85% of the local population is unemployed and the area has had a persistent problem with gang violence in the past.
I’m told that more than a thousand people died in Baillergeau during the earthquake and that 99% of homes, more than 2,000 buildings, were completely destroyed.
Its needs are evident, now more so than ever, but today clean water is being distributed and new latrines are being installed thanks to aid agencies.
Cash-for-work
Oxfam worked in the neighbourhood before the quake, helping people to access food at a time when prices had skyrocketed. This week a new project has begun – paying community members to start cleaning up the area by removing rubbish and waste (see more in the video below):
Our cash-for-work programme means that not only do communities begin to improve their living conditions but also people have an opportunity to earn the money they so desperately need to buy food and other necessities.
Maguerite’s Story
Projects like this can provide a vital boost to the local economy and the money helps those who need it most. People like Marguerite Ulysse, who miraculously gave birth to a baby girl, Neika, just two days after the earthquake struck Port-au-Prince.
When the expectant mother went into labour, her home had collapsed, the nearest hospital had been destroyed and her family had almost nothing with them. Forced to improvise, Marguerite gave birth by night on the grounds of what had once been the local football pitch, currently serving as a camp for families who’ve lost their homes. Marguerite and her family share a small makeshift tin shack on the football field with nearly 30 others. A further thousand are also camped out in the surrounding area.
“My daughter is a blessing from God. We lost everything. But as long as God can help us, I know it will be OK,” she said, cradling baby Neika in her arms.
Now through Oxfam, more practical local support is also available, as Marguerite continues to pray for a brighter future for her new-born baby girl.
Donate now and find out more about Oxfam’s Haiti Earthquake response