Greetings,

Traditionally I’ve written letters from the chair focused on national issues of interest to CHWs and Section activities.  There has been a recent tragedy that takes precedence over the traditional letter from the chair. The earthquake in Haiti has left many without basic necessities, including food and shelter.  Many of our colleagues have family in Haiti and are left to wonder about the safety of loved ones.  To all of those affected, I send blessings and hopes for word from family they have not heard from yet.

Haiti has a long tradition of community health workers, often called “accompagnateurs” -- many of whom have connections to the United States through Partners in Health and other development organizations.  Our roles and dedication to our communities are the same across the water, and this is the bond that ties us. We are all members of the same work force, regardless of our various job titles. We need to band together even more strongly in this great time of need.  Let’s use our collective energy to assist the communities and the CHWs in Haiti. Give what you can give in time, donations, prayers or whatever you are able; nothing is too small.  Assist to make change in communities afar, as we make change in our own communities.

Community health workers have made a difference in times of tragedy in the United States. Many of us personally know colleagues who put community first during Hurricane Katrina. Although we may not know the individual CHWs in Haiti, we can assume when able they have risen to the occasion.  We hear of the role of the much needed medical teams of doctors and nurses in assisting the residents of Haiti. I urge us all to remember the role our counterparts, as long trusted members of the communities, have had and will continue to have as Haiti recovers. I don’t pretend to know the magnitude of the damage which has occurred. I do know that alongside the doctors, nurses and other public health professionals, CHWs are doing what they can to find the much needed resources to make their communities whole. This is what CHWs do best whether here in the United States or abroad. 

APHA’s International Health Section has information on the Web site for those interested in making donations, assisting in other ways or wanting to know more about the U.S. response. Please visit http://www.apha.org/programs/globalhealth/issues/ to find information.  Even if you choose not to donate, there are many reputable organizations needing our assistance in many ways to make the daily life of Haitians just a little easier. As time goes on  and media coverage wanes, it will be easy to forget the needs and pain of those currently making front page headlines.  We don’t turn our backs on those in need at home; please don’t turn your backs to the communities of Haiti.