Episcopal Relief and Development is providing assistance to Haitians in the aftermath of ongoing violence and unrest. Political protests and demonstrations have killed 51 people, injured dozens, and disrupted life for thousands. In the past five months, protests have taken place in Port-au-Prince, as well as other cities including Gonaives, Cap-Haitien, Petit Goave, Gorman, and Hinche.

According to recent reports, four people were killed on February 5 after anti-government opponents torched a police station in the northwest city of Gonaives.

"The recent political unrest in Haiti is almost bringing the country to a halt," said the Rt. Rev. Jean Zache Duracin, Bishop of Haiti. "The latest events create an even more precarious economic situation in many regions where the population had already been affected not too long ago by floods and other natural disasters," stated Bishop Duracin.

On behalf of the Episcopal Church, Episcopal Relief and Development has advanced emergency funds to the Diocese of Haiti so local parishes can provide food, temporary shelter, and medicines to children, women, elderly and other displaced people. "The aid will allow us to respond to the most urgent needs of the worst affected areas."

ERD remains in contact with Burton Joseph, the diocesan Program Officer for Haiti. ERD prays for people in Haiti and will continue monitoring the situation.

To make a contribution to the Haiti Relief Fund or to respond immediately after natural disasters and civil unrest around the world, donate online using a credit card at http://www.er-d.org/ or call (800) 334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief and Development, c/o Haiti Relief Fund, PO Box 12043, Newark, NJ 07101.