To the Point
Haiti: a Victim of Natural Disaster...and Much More
When Haiti was struck by a massive earthquake, its fragile government was unprepared to respond. How did it get that way? Had there been real progress in recent months? What does the future hold for people who’ve shown extraordinary resilience despite corruption, neglect and continued natural disasters? Also, how to distinguish effective charities from scams.
By Warren Olney • • 50m ListenWhen Haiti was struck by a massive earthquake, its fragile government was unprepared to respond. How did it get that way? Had there been real progress in recent months? What does the future hold for people who’ve shown extraordinary resilience despite corruption, neglect and continued natural disasters? Also, which charities can deliver real help and how to find them.
Banner image: Haitian flag hangs on the ruins of the presidential palace in Port-au-Prince, Haiti after a magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck on Tuesday. Photo: Frederic Dupoux/Getty Images
In this episode
3 storiesAirport Overwhelmed as Time Runs Out for Haiti Earthquake Victims
This afternoon, President Obama said he had spoken to Haiti's President Réne Préval. Observing that the entire world is offering help because of "common humanity," the President said that the US has a special responsibility because of it's "unique capacity" and pledged continued commitment to the government and people of Haiti.
Read the story8 minHaiti's Troubled History, America's Role and Hope for the Future
The human disaster in Haiti is hard to describe: mass graves and street-corner cremations with piles of decaying bodies still growing in Port-au-Prince. Tens of thousands of injured survivors with no access to medical care; the lack of food and water leading to fears of looting and violence.
Read the story38 minWhich Haiti Charities Should You Give To?
In the aftermath of the earthquake, there's been an avalanche of offers to help concerned people render assistance — even by texting. What's the best way to determine who's real and who's running a scam?
Read the story5 min
