Give, Pray, Give.

I know all of you have been praying and thinking about the devastation in Haiti. Actually, I had such a busy week last week that I only caught a glimpse of the reporting. Today I had the opportunity to watch and learn even more about this island and it's people. We already know that Haiti is one of the most impoverished countries in the world today. Prior to the earthquake, only 46% of the population had drinkable water. One-half of this countries population is under 18 years of age, and since younger people are much more susceptible to diarrheal diseases and other infections, there is an URGENT need to provide safe water and sanitation after a disaster like this. A main priority for all the aid agencies has been providing Family Water Kits(a $.10 packet that takes a gallon or more of unsanitized, undrinkable water and takes all of the impurities out in a 30 minute time frame). A small donation of even $10.00 aids in securing water kits for 100 families.

I read this blog from Tamar Hahn, a  UNICEF volunteer and it brought me to tears. (Click here to view From UNICEF's Tamar Hahn in Haiti) My family will do our part in helping out, and I'll recall a lesson from Mother Theresa, "It's not really giving until it hurts", an important tenet that I want my 8 year-old to learn and live by.

This country needs us. These children need us. Let's give, pray, and give together. The emptiness in the childrens' faces below tells the story of this historical devastation.

I'm choosing to donate through the U.S. Unicef Haiti Emergency Fund, as 100% of all donations will go to the Haitian people in the form of food, water, supplies, and more. To donate $10, simply text to #20222 and write UNICEF. It's that easy. Not a texter?  Just call 1-800-4UNICEF or 1-800-HELPNOW, or donate on-line at http://www.unicefusa.org/. It's not too late.