PADF Positions Supplies Near Key Haitian Cities But Says It Needs More Help

WASHINGTON, Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- As Tropical Storm Tomas is hours from striking Haiti, the Pan American Development Foundation (PADF) has positioned supplies near Port-au-Prince, Jacmel and Gonaives. www.ImUnitedforHaiti.org

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"In addition to supplies, our disaster experts are working with authorities and community organizations to help the most vulnerable people to prepare," says Amy Coughenour, PADF's deputy executive director. "Our goal is to keep people safe during and after this big storm."

Tomas, which may grow to a category one hurricane, will bring torrential rains, strong winds and flash floods, which will cause serious damages in many areas, particularly in the displacement camps.

"Of grave concern is that the tropical storm will also spread the cholera epidemic," says Coughenour. Cholera, which is passed through contaminated water, has killed 442 and infected nearly 6,800. PADF has responded to the cholera epidemic.

Bottled water comprises most of the supplies that PADF has positioned on the island.

"For Haiti, clean water will be one of the highest priorities," says Coughenour. "Unfortunately, we've been responding to back-to-back disasters in Haiti and our resources have been depleted. We are asking for cash donations to help fill the void."  www.ImUnitedforHaiti.org

Safe homes

The non-profit is also working with Haitian authorities and community groups to help move displaced people out of camps and into homes that have been inspected and are safe.

Since May, PADF, Miyamoto International and its partners have trained Haitian structural engineers to inspect damaged buildings to determine if they are safe for occupancy. Of the 400,000 inspected buildings, approximately 50 percent are safe.

About PADF

PADF is a non-profit organization established in 1962 to promote, facilitate, and implement social and economic development in Latin America and the Caribbean. In the past year, it had more than 10 million beneficiaries in 22 countries. www.padf.org  

PADF is one of the largest non-governmental organizations in Haiti. With nearly three decades of work on the ground, PADF now manages a large portfolio of activities ranging from community-driven development to protecting human rights. www.ImUnitedforHaiti.org  

PADF is based in Washington, D.C., and has field offices in Haiti, Colombia and elsewhere. www.padf.org

Donations: 877-572-4484

SOURCE Pan American Development Foundation

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