Haiti has experienced a world of unfathomable chaos and misery since the devastating 7.0 magnitude earthquake hit on January 12. Conservative estimates of the death toll on the impoverished island sit at around 200,000 people.
At a time where assistance and aid is critically needed, a number of organisations are using the vehicles available to them to raise funds in support of the relief work humanitarian organisations are delivering to the small Caribbean country. Moved by the dire situation, Cricket Wellington decided to dedicate one of its HRV Cup matches, dubbed Howzat-for-Haiti, to help raise funds to help the people of Haiti.
Cricket Wellington was thrilled with the support offered by fans, players and a number of organisations in support of the cause. Despite a wet match, over $20,000 was raised and is being sent with UNICEF to assist the emergency response in Haiti.
UNICEF Executive Director Dennis McKinlay is thrilled with the response. “It was a great example of partnership to achieve a greater good,” he said. “It is even more remarkable given the short lead time [before the match]”.
Globally UNICEF has raised about $180m which will pay for the first 6 months of emergency response. They are appealing for more as they move into the reconstruction phase and rebuild schools, train more teachers and provide desks, books, play equipment etc.
At present UNICEF has landed 20 charter flights of supplies; water tanks, water containers, purification tablets, sanitation equipment, nutrition supplements to combat malnutrition, tents, tarpaulins, medical kits, school in the box, sports in a box, and they are delivering 2.6m litres of water a day – sufficient for 500,000 people. UNICEF has been active in helping the government mitigate child trafficking and ensuring proper tracing of parents and adoption processes are followed.
Cricket Wellington and UNICEF would like to thank all those who contributed to Howzat-for-Haiti. The contribution that fans, players and a number of organisations made will be a life saving one.
A particular thanks needs to go to the wonderful generosity shown by the following organisations that donated either financially, their expertise, or items for the Trademe Auction – HRV, Centre of Dental Excellence, Apex Print and Design, Scarlett Events and Speights Summit, New Zealand Cricket, Central Districts Cricket, Exodus Gym, The National Bank, Ticketek, Railway Metro New World, The Quality Hotel, The Radio Network, Monstavision, Speedy Signs, Wellington City Council, Positively Wellington Tourism and The Dominion Post.
If you would like to donate to UNICEF’s Haiti appeal please visit www.unicef.org.nz or call 0800 800 124
