CARE Canada

Published purpose

22 March 2011 - On January 12, 2010, a massive earthquake measuring 7.0 on the Richter scale rocked Port-au-Prince, the capital of the impoverished Caribbean nation of Haiti. It is estimated that up to 3 million people have been affected by the disaster, many of whom require ongoing humanitarian assistance to meet their basic needs. With support from CIDA, CARE Canada aims to improve access to safe water, proper sanitation and good hygiene measures for earthquake-affected communities. This project contributes to the reduction in morbidity and mortality rates among the most vulnerable population to cholera and other water-borne diseases in Carrefour and Léogâne through improved access to clean, potable water and sanitation facilities, and improved health/hygiene practices. Specific activities include: the provision of safe and equitable access to appropriate water for beneficiaries; the implementation of sanitary surveys conducted at households and water points; the provision of safe and equitable access to appropriate sanitary facilities; the provision of public latrines; the dissemination of knowledge and provision of means to reduce water, sanitation and vector–related diseases; and engagement of health committees with the wider community on activities related to reducing water, sanitation and vector-related diseases.