09 April 2010

I’d read the reports, seen the pictures, the video, heard the stories and researched The Salvation Army’s history in Haiti. As the Community Relations Director for the Northwest Division, it’s my job to know and share what we do around the world. Since January 12, 2010 I did just that – I passed along statistics, talked about the many schools, hospitals, churches and other programs we have in the country. The Salvation Army has served in Haiti since 1950 and employs 200 local officers and staff year-round.

But it wasn’t until I was deployed as the Public Information Officer for The Salvation Army’s World Service Office in Haiti, that I realized the true depth and heart of this organization.

The Arrival:

From 30,000 feet in the air it looks like any other Caribbean island. From 10,000 feet things become a little clearer. From 1,000 feet eyes can be tricked into seeing buildings scattered, but from 500 feet it is unlike anything most eyes have ever seen. It is devastation.

The Destruction:

Within a month after the quake most of the main roads in Port-au-Prince were cleared of rubble. But the remnants still remain on the sides of roads and collapsed buildings are too dangerous to attempt clean-up. There are areas of the city where 2 buildings stand and 20 around them are crumbled. There are other areas with minor damage but as a whole, the capital city and many small towns are destroyed. Fortunately, The Salvation Army and other non-government and government organizations are there to help rebuild and restore. 

The Distribution:

The Salvation Army is one of nearly 1,000 NGOs (Non-Government Organizations) serving in Haiti. It is also one of the largest, providing food and supplies to 20,000 displaced survivors just in Port-au-Prince. Throughout the country thousands in rural areas are also receiving food, cooking oil, buckets and other necessities to regain their independence and livelihood.

The 20,000 in Port-au-Prince are all registered at a tent city camp operated by The Salvation Army. Through a created and donated UPS Trackpad System, the staff can scan a card and track how much food they’ve received thus far.

I witnessed several food distributions and The Salvation Army’s is by far the most organized and safest way of serving those in need. Providing disaster relief since the 1800s has proven to make distributions like those in Haiti, seem effortless and effective.

Military Support/Security:

The Salvation Army, The U.S. Army and The United Nations continue working collaboratively to keep those living and serving in Haiti safe. All distributions are kept secure with military convoys to the locations and a strong military presence at the sites.

Both The Salvation Army and The U.S. Army have the same mission to provide humanitarian support to survivors. “The Salvation Army was receptive and there was mutual respect,” Lt. Cody Tinsley, 1 Platoon, A Company, 2 Battalion, 325 Air Infantry Regiment said regarding the first of what became many joint missions of food distribution.

As expected immediately after the quake, disorder and chaos ensued from thousands who rushed for the items. Tinsley said together, both Armies quickly controlled the situation after assessing the needs and safety issues of all involved.

During my deployment I too faced a few scary moments, as did other members of The Salvation Army’s Incident Command Team. But thanks to the U.S. Army and United Nations we were kept safe and could continue providing service to others.

The Children/The Hope:

The children of Haiti have more hope than most people I’ve met in my life. They are truly resilient and grateful for what they have – and don’t complain about what they lack. I quickly saw that these kids didn’t have much before the quake, so many aren’t seeing a drastic change in their ways of living. It is sad, but it also allows them to smile at the world and see they can still thrive in the world – if given the opportunity.

The opportunities will continue coming from The Salvation Army as they have for 50 years. The organization operates more than 50 schools throughout the country, along with several children’s homes. The Salvation Army’s schools in Port-au-Prince were some of the first to resume classes less than two months after the quake.

For children not attending classes, The Salvation Army, World Concern and UNICEF have partnered to create a safe activity center inside camp, where kids can participate in arts and crafts, sports and music. They also receive meals at the site.

The Next Step:

As the rainy season approaches, The Salvation Army continues working with the Haitian government to build transitional housing outside Port-au-Prince and flood zone areas. It is a long process but one that’s well on its way to relocating people to places where they are safe and can start new lives.

As long as allowed, The Salvation Army will continue food and supply distributions. The international staff will continue working closely with local staff to meet the needs of the country. Local Haitians have and will continue to be hired in order to rebuild the economy.

The Personal Impact:

People ask me everyday about my experience in Haiti. How was it? What was it like? When was I ready to come home? These are questions I’m still asking myself and ones I don’t yet have the answers to – and now realize I might never have. I’m okay with that.

I know that serving in Haiti changed me. I’m not sure in what way but as cliché as it sounds; it was life-changing and gave me a new perspective on many things. A part of my heart will always be with the people of Haiti. They have showed me a strength I didn’t know existed and proved that love and hope can still grow out of chaos and turmoil.

As for The Salvation Army, many are familiar with the kettles and thrift stores. Some know it is the world’s largest social service organization. What many don’t know is The Salvation Army is a first responder to disasters worldwide. The officers and staff go in, take care of others and do it quietly and with humility.

I witnessed this in a way I never have before. Being an employee for the organization I know the officers are humble – because they always put others first. Each day I was in awe of the local staff that never asked for or needed praise and credit for their good deeds. I am prouder than ever, to be a part of The Salvation Army – a place and a people where others can turn to, and expect change.