GONAIVES, HAITI (October 6, 2008) – Cleanup begins today in schools that are still swamped with mud and debris more than a month after floods devastated this city in northwestern Haiti. CARE is launching the effort in partnership with the humanitarian agency CHF International, as part of a larger emergency response programme.
By paying residents for cleanup work, the project will inject much-needed cash into the local economy. The work begins with 10 schools in the most vulnerable areas of Gonaives, emphasizing national schools, and will gradually increase. The floods affected 185 schools in Gonaïves, preventing the scheduled resumption of classes Sept. 8.
School cleanup is doubly important, explains Sophie Perez, CARE Haiti country director.
“First of all, it’s important for young people to resume their education. They need a reassuring, structured environment. The children have been psychologically affected by disaster – it’s left them completely disoriented.
“The resumption of classes is also crucial for parents with dependent children,” Perez continues. “The presence of children consumes time and energy which must be invested in restoring homes and finding work.”
School is also a safe place adapted to children, where their needs are met and psychosocial support can be offered, Perez adds.
The cleanup is part of a larger initiative to help increase incomes of city residents, by employing nearly 5,000 people for six months. The targeted schools are being selected in consultation with local authorities and communities in order to decrease the risk of duplication and to make sure inhabitants take ownership of the project.
Approximately 41,000 cubic meters of debris will be cleaned up. Workers will receive training about hygiene and health hazards in order to reduce the risks of exposure to remains and contaminated water.
Reopening schools is a first step, but it’s not enough: children need materials like books, pens and paper, and school furniture. Parents and teachers also need special guidance to help them face a very different back-to-school season. CARE hopes to be able to raise funds for these purposes, Perez says.
Read more about the devastating floods in Haiti.
About CARE: Founded in 1945, CARE is one of the world’s largest humanitarian aid agencies. In nearly 70 countries, CARE works with the poorest communities to improve basic health and education, enhance rural livelihoods and food security, increase access to clean water and sanitation, expand economic opportunity, and provide lifesaving assistance after disasters. CARE has been working in Haiti since 1954, providing projects in HIV/AIDS, reproductive health, maternal and child health, education, food security, and water and sanitation.