Since the resurgence of cholera in October 2nd 2022, as of 14 December 2022, there have been 15,000 suspected cases with a 2% case fatality rate, which is a 67% increase from 2017, which is just a couple years before Haiti’s triumph over this bacterial infection.
Although this is not the first time that the country has been faced with this disease, which spreads through contaminated water and is relatively easy to treat with simple rehydration, the country’s high levels of insecurity and gang rivalries have made all rescue efforts extremely difficult.
After the fuel price hike announced by Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry back in September 2022, the shortage of gas impacted every aspect of Haitian life since the country does not have a functioning electrical grid. Trash collection ceased entirely in parts of Port-au-Prince, turning streets of urban shantytowns into rivers of squalid mud, and creating mountains of garbage next to food markets. The nation’s water utility stopped functioning normally and clean water became scarce in its large slums.
The treatment and delivery of clean water and medical supplies were also almost always delayed due to gang violence and street blockades. Parents of sick children often had to face the decision of risking their lives to save their children.
Universal access to safe drinking water and adequate sanitation is essential in the fight against cholera and many other water-borne illnesses. IAFL is grateful for the $15,000 donation from our sponsor for the delivery of 5 water purifiers to distribute in Haiti on December 9th of 2022.
IAFL has partnered with Joe Hurston from Air Mobile Ministries, a non-profit organization that does disaster relief all around the world and has brought water purification systems to 47 countries worldwide with over 1400+ units deployed. At a mere 29 pounds, a single water purifier can produce up to 25 gallons of pure water every hour, which is enough drinking water for 1000 people per day.
“I am so thankful for our partnership in bringing clean water to Haiti. It is no accident that our Good Lord put me together with you (Marie Thadal), Robert Baraczek, and our sweet Sisters at the Girls School in Haiti. Air Mobile stands ready to fully support these water purifiers and keep them delivering CLEAN WATER!” – Joe Hurston.
By Shu-Ping (Jennifer) Chen