Haiti
We have worked in Haiti for eight years, empowering and supporting poor and vulnerable older people. Since the earthquake of January 2010, we have distributed food, clothes, medication and wellness kits, which include items such as soap, shampoo and towels, to older people in need, especially those looking after grandchildren.
We are also working in nursing homes and in the temporary camps to make sure older people's needs aren't neglected in the relief effort. For instance, we run public information campaigns for older people and their families, reminding them not to neglect older relatives and neighbours.
The difference we made in 2009-10
- We have supported eight nursing homes, benefiting a total of 400 older residents.
- In partnership with ALA Dominicana, we have given emotional support to 200 older people made homeless by the earthquake and living in temporary camps.
- We have distributed food and wellness kits to thousands of older people made homeless by the earthquake and living in camps in Petionville and Leogane.
What next?
- We will work on sanitation issues to prevent the spread of diseases - a particular risk during the rainy season.
- We will train community health workers, nurses and other medical professionals to provide healthcare geared to older people's needs. We'll also fund doctors who are experts in older people's health.
- We will go on supporting older people who've been affected by the earthquake, as many living in temporary camps suffer from a lack of privacy, appalling living conditions, and even abuse.
Our partners
Association pour la promotion de la sante integrale de la famille (APROFISA), Centre d`Accueil et de Récupération des personnes du troisième Age (CARPA)