United Nations humanitarian agencies have started delivering aid directly to people in Haiti following a recent spike in violence between rival gangs which has fueled a worsening crisis across the capital, Port-au-Prince.
Vulnerable inhabitants of the commune of Cité Soleil as well as those in other neighbourhoods of the capital, Port-au-Prince, have received items such as hygiene and baby supplies, plastic sheeting, jerry cans for water, blankets, solar lamps and repair items for houses from the UN’s International Organization for Migration (IOM).
Extensive deliveries
The UN Children’s Fund, (UNICEF) also delivered over 300,000 litres of drinking water, enough for 20,000 people for two days. It also provided 300 hygiene kits and assisted 780 children with psychosocial support.
The World Food Programme (WFP) distributed food including rice, beans, and oil, which can feed 15,000 for a week.
WFP/Theresa Piorr
UNICEF distributes relief items to vulnerable people in Cité Soleil, Haiti.
According to the UN, between 8 and 17 July over 471 people were killed, injured or unaccounted for.
Serious incidents of sexual violence against women and girls, as well as boys being recruited by gangs, have also been reported.
Around 3,000 people have fled their homes, including hundreds of unaccompanied children, while at least 140 houses have been destroyed or burnt down.
Humanitarian Coordinator, Ulrika Richardson, has called on all parties to end the deadly violence and ensure an open humanitarian corridor to Cité Soleil.
She said needs there are “immense and are growing due to poverty, lack of basic services, including security, and a recent spike in violence. The UN is committed to continuing to deliver aid to the most vulnerable children, women and men in need, in line with the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence.”
Access to healthcare is limited or non-existent with many centres closed and limited access for medical staff to the area, while food and water has been in short supply.
“UN humanitarian agencies are providing immediate life-saving assistance in Cité Soleil,” said Ms. Richardson, “but a more sustainable and holistic approach needs to be found for the medium and longer-term development of this emblematic commune which has a strong human potential, so that unmet needs can be satisfied; this should include protection, and a return to a life of dignity for its inhabitants.”
WFP/Theresa Piorr
IOM delivers relief items to vulnerable communities in Cité Soleil, Haiti.
Needs assessment
The UN provided direct assistance to the most vulnerable based on a coordinated joint needs assessment undertaken by IOM, UNICEF and WFP in Cité Soleil.
It is working with Haiti’s civil protection agency (DGPC), the Office for Citizen Protection (OPC), the Economic and Social Assistance Fund (FAES), other local and government agencies as well as other actors in order to provide a more comprehensive response to the vulnerable communities.
Cité Soleil with a current estimated population around 300,000 is one of the most deprived communes in Port-au-Prince and its humanitarian and development needs were huge even before the current upsurge in violence.
The Humanitarian Coordinator calls on all parties to remain committed to end the deadly violence and ensure an open humanitarian corridor to Cité Soleil to allow unhindered access to emergency humanitarian and medical assistance, for all residents.
WFP/Theresa Piorr
IOM trucks head to Cité Soleil in Haiti, with relief items for vulnerable communities.
Lila Montgomery is a celebrated journalist who has a deep commitment to global affairs and humanitarian issues. Her extensive reporting on United Nations initiatives across the globe has brought critical stories to the forefront, stories that affect communities everywhere.
It’s heartening to see the UN stepping up to support the Haitian community during these challenging times. The aid deliveries are crucial for those affected by the violence, and it’s great to hear about the specific assistance being provided, from hygiene supplies to food distribution. This kind of support is vital in times of crisis, and it’s inspiring to see organizations like the UN making a real difference on the ground.
It’s heartwarming to see the UN stepping in to help the Haitian people during such difficult times. The aid being provided, from hygiene supplies to food assistance, is crucial for the vulnerable communities affected by the rampant gang violence. Let’s hope for peace and stability to be restored soon in Haiti.
How effective has the aid been in reducing the impact of gang violence in Haiti so far?
The aid efforts initiated by the UN agencies in Haiti have been crucial in providing essential supplies and support to the vulnerable populations affected by the escalating gang violence. The deliveries of hygiene items, drinking water, food, and psychosocial assistance have made a significant impact on the affected communities, offering much-needed relief and stability in the midst of the crisis.
It’s heartwarming to see the UN stepping in to assist the Haitians during such a challenging time. The efforts to provide essential supplies and support to those affected by the gang violence in Haiti are truly commendable.
It’s heartwarming to see the UN taking action to help the Haitian people during such intense gang violence. The aid being provided, from hygiene supplies to food and water, will undoubtedly make a significant impact on the lives of those affected. Let’s hope for a swift resolution to the crisis in Haiti.
It’s heartwarming to see the UN stepping in to aid the vulnerable inhabitants of Cité Soleil and other neighborhoods in Port-au-Prince amidst the rampant gang violence. The extensive deliveries of essential supplies by various UN agencies like IOM, UNICEF, and WFP are crucial in providing relief during this crisis. The efforts to provide drinking water, hygiene kits, and food demonstrate a commitment to supporting those most in need. Let’s hope these initiatives can bring some stability and relief to the affected communities.
It’s heartening to see the UN stepping in to provide essential aid to the Haitian people amidst the escalating gang violence. The efforts to deliver crucial supplies like hygiene items, water, food, and support to vulnerable communities are commendable and much needed during this crisis.
Is the aid reaching all affected areas in Haiti equally, or are some regions receiving more assistance than others?
Various international humanitarian agencies, including the UN, are working tirelessly to ensure aid is distributed as evenly as possible across all affected regions in Haiti. The goal is to provide assistance to those in need regardless of their location, with a focus on reaching the most vulnerable populations in areas impacted by gang violence.
It’s heartwarming to see the UN stepping in to provide essential aid to the people of Haiti amidst such rampant gang violence. The efforts to deliver hygiene supplies, drinking water, and food are truly life-saving for those in need. Let’s hope for a brighter future ahead for the vulnerable inhabitants of Port-au-Prince.
It’s heartwarming to see the UN stepping in to help the people of Haiti during these challenging times. The aid being delivered to the vulnerable communities is crucial for their survival and well-being. Let’s hope that these efforts bring some relief and stability to the region.
It’s heartwarming to see the UN stepping in to help the Haitian people amidst such rampant gang violence. These aid deliveries are a beacon of hope in the midst of a crisis that has affected so many vulnerable communities. Let’s hope for stability and peace to return soon.