Tragedy in Haiti

Rapid Response Team Deployed Within Hours of Disaster

January 12, 2010 - Please pray for the people of Haiti as they deal with a devastating earthquake in their capital city.

Last updated January 15:Chaplains from the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team (RRT) and representatives from Samaritan's Purse are now in earthquake-ravaged nation of Haiti. Franklin Graham is directing response teams and working to coordinate the response from both BGEA and Samaritan's Purse.

Personnel from both organizations have been on the island since Wednesday afternoon to begin determining how the BGEA and Samaritan's Purse can most effectively meet the emotional, spiritual and physical needs of the victims.

"The streets are full of people that have no home to go back to," said Dr. David Gettle, Samaritan's Purse medical advisor. "They’re running out of food, fuel, and water. The situation is desperate and tense, and there is tremendous suffering."

Samaritan's Purse plans to supply 12,000 to 15,000 gallons of daily fresh water. Initially, 6,000 temporary shelters will be built for those who lost their homes. More will be added on a weekly basis.




"Just about everyone's home got flattened," said Franklin Graham. "It is extremely important that we provide a place for them to live in the meantime."

"Please pray for the victims of the earthquakes, especially those who are still searching through the rubble looking for lost loved ones," said Jack Munday, Director of the Rapid Response Team. "Pray also for our team as they bring hope and comfort in the midst of this disaster."

We will have more updates from our staff in Haiti. Please check back often.


Learn more about the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association Rapid Response Team here.