In response to queries from readers, the first "How Can I Help" blog was devoted to volunteering.  With increasing food insecurity in Haiti, we have received many inquiries from caring people who want to do their part to improve the situation.  Many have offered to hold food drives - but Haiti is in this situation because it does not grow enough food and has depended on importation for far too long.  Your support will go farther if, instead of sending food, you make a contribution to an organization that is already on the ground in Haiti.  Below are organizations that are fighting hunger in Haiti and are reputable and effective.  With your support, they can reach more people.

The World Food Programme (WFP):  WFP provides food assistance to the most vulnerable population in the countries and regions it works in.  WFP is very strong logistically, and whenever possible, tries to buy food locally so that it can support local economies. It is a UN agency, and relies on contributions from governments and individuals.  Its appeal for Haiti has been grossly underfunded, so much so that the UN Secretary General has called for the international community to step up.   If a famine were ever to occur, WFP would be the organization that stepped in.

Project Medishare:  Project Medishare is based out of Thomonde and operates on the Upper Central Plateau.  It has extensive health programs and is ramping up its nutritional programming as well.  Click here to read about an innovative program they are establishing to treat malnourished children with locally purchased ingredients.  The intent is to begin in Thomonde and scale the project up throughout the Plateau.

In addition to its public health and HIV/AIDS programming, CARE runs feeding programs in the Northwest portion of Haiti, by far the most environmentally degraded portion of the country.   CARE has had a presence in haiti since 1954 and is one othe best known international NGOs in Haiti and elsewhere.

Haiti Micah Project:  Haiti Micah Project (HMP) is a program dedicated to meeting the comprehensive needs of street children and other vulnerable youth in the city of Mirebalaise.  The program ensures that they are fed, educated, mentored, and provided health care.  Plans are underway for a shelter.

Organization for the Rehabilitation of the Environment (ORE):   If Haiti is to be able to feed itself, it must make farming viable.  This won't be possible without halting environmental degradation. ORE works directly with farmers to promote high revenue tree crops, improved seeds, cash crops and marketing programs.

Floresta is a religious organization that takes promoting stewardship of the Earth very seriously.  They teach innovative agricultural techniques, provide microcredit loans, and are involved in signficant reforestation efforts in Haiti. About 33,000 fruit and hardwood trees a year. Plus, coffee and other crops can be planted in the shade of fruit trees. 

Fondwa University:  Fondwa is Haiti's first and only rural University.  Students may enroll regardless of their income level.  The students are expected to take part in service projects, and when they have completed their education, must manage a project in an under-served rural community.  Many of their service programs revolve around agriculture.  Organizations like Fondwa are helping to train up the next generation of community and environmental leaders.

If you would like to make a difference by promoting food security in Haiti, you can't go wrong with any of the organizations listed above.  If you need further information, you are welcome to contact us, but please...no food drives.

Thanks!
Bryan