Haiti Initiative

Over the past day, the devastation facing America's neighbor to the southeast, Haiti, has become clear.  Tens of thousands have been killed and many more injured in one of the greatest natural disasters in recent memory.  Coming on the heels of devastating hurricanes, the death toll is horrific.  As Haitians mourn the dead, however, millions more have been left fighting to secure basic living necessities from the ruble this 7.0 magnitude earthquake has created.  

For me, this tragedy hits a bit close to home.  As a high school student, I played soccer in the streets that are now triage centers and walked the dirt paths that have become bedrooms.  Right now, old friends are doubtlessly struggling to get by, if not worse.

As the State Department, USAID, and U.S. Southern Command rush to provide assistance to Haiti, there is an important role that we as American citizens must play in this effort.  We are rightly recognized as the most compassionate and giving people in the world and must now step forward to provide our assistance.  I urge the people of Connecticut's 4th Congressional District, and those from across this great country, to act.  Let's all invest $10 to support a people who, in a nation of challenges, have never needed it more.

In the coming weeks, I will be helping raise funds and awareness online and in our local community, so that our resources can quickly get to those most in need. This is our opportunity to demonstrate both to ourselves and the international community that while we Americans may face a difficult economy and our own obstacles, we will always answer the call to help others when it is needed.

Please click on the highlighted link to contribute to the American Red Cross' Haiti Relief fund.