It’s been nearly three weeks since Hurricane Matthew devastated Haiti’s southern peninsula. In the days since then, much has been accomplished, though much more remains to be done. World Renew Senior Project Manager Ken Little arrived in Haiti on October 8 and traveled from Port-au-Prince to the hardest areas in south-western Haiti to assess the damage.

In the days since then, much has been accomplished, though much more remains to be done. World Renew Senior Project Manager Ken Little arrived in Haiti on October 8 and traveled from Port-au-Prince to the hardest areas in south-western Haiti to assess the damage.

In the community of Duchity, Little met Mucline Nazaire, a farmer and mother of four. When Hurricane Matthew struck Duchity, Nazaire lost everything – her crops were completely destroyed and her livestock were killed. To make matters worse, Nazaire and her four children were forced to leave the home that they were renting.

Anese Clerge, a friend and neighbor was filled with compassion for this family and welcomed them into her home. Even though her own roof was destroyed in the Hurricane Matthew, she still compassionately gave of what she had to help others in need. In spite of the overwhelming circumstances faced by Nazaire and thousands of other Haitians, similar stories of hope and generosity are coming from communities.

In the first few days of this response, it became clear that three things were needed: food, water and shelter. World Renew has been responding to these immediate needs in partnership with, Christian Reformed World Missions, the Integral Alliance and other local partner organizations.  In addition to distributing nearly 400 tarps, World Renew has already distributed emergency food aid to 450 families. World Renew has also purchased 500 household water filters and plans to distribute these in the coming days. As concerns about food continue, World Renew is planning to provide 3 months of food assistance to approximately 1,600 families in Duchity. 

Below are several photos of communities affected by Hurricane Matthew. Important work is being done, and partnership in the hardest hit communities, like Duchity, is ongoing. Canadians and Americans have responded in generosity to make all of this possible.

May these photos challenge you with the stark reality of Hurricane Matthew’s devastation, but also be an encouragement as you glimpse the hope and joy that endures in the people of Haiti.

Your prayers and financial support continue to be urgently needed. Please donate today.

Devastation in the community of Duchity.

Destruction caused by Hurricane Matthew.

Haitians remain hopeful. 

*Photos by Daryl Finley/World Concern.