Haitian Relief Efforts

In response to the recent earthquake in Haiti, The Gerontological Society of America would like to make its members aware of several opportunities to support the victims of this tragedy.

Older people are particularly vulnerable in the aftermath of disasters. For example, a January 20 CNN report described deplorable conditions in a Port-au-Prince nursing home.

GSA has learned that the AARP Foundation is partnering with HelpAge USA, a relief and development organization focused on the needs of older people in developing countries, to aid the survivors of the Haitian catastrophe. The goal of this collaboration is to help provide lifesaving, basic needs like water, food, and shelter to those who are unable to reach emergency relief centers due to age, injury, or infirmity. It also will provide for the special needs of seniors like medicines, walking sticks, eyeglasses, and clothing.

InterAction, coalition of U.S.-based international non-governmental organizations, has compiled a comprehensive online list of other groups accepting donations to aid relief efforts in Haiti. Within the last few days, GSA staffers took up their own collection to support the work of Doctors Without Borders.

If you choose to make a gift, it will support emergency relief and recovery including sending supplies, mobilizing workers, and providing financial resources.