UNICEF, which has been working in Haiti since 1949, reports this morning:
Despite heavy damages to its own offices in Port-au-Prince UNICEF is ready to provide immediate support to the victims of the unfolding humanitarian crisis following the earthquake that hit Haiti today.
In coordination with all other UN agencies present on the ground, UNICEF will provide supplies to allow access to adequate sanitation, safe water and basic health care.
UNICEF is also preparing materials and staff so that children, tremendously vulnerable during natural catastrophes, are protected. UNICEF materials and advisors will assist so that children are able to continue learning and studying, and be provided safe recreation areas while their caretakers turn to rebuilding their lives.
For useful background on Haiti and UNICEF’s past relief efforts in the country, read this. And be sure to follow their excellent FieldNotes blog for up-to-the-minute reports on what they’re seeing.