Initial Information on the Situation in Haiti 1-13-10.
 As many of you are aware, an earthquake of more than 7.0 magnitude hit Haiti on Tuesday, January 12. Damage and death are widespread. Estimates range from 100,000 to 500,000 deaths. These numbers have not yet been confirmed.
I’m sure you are concerned for our friend, Isaac Adrien, director of COP in Haiti, and for the children and their families in Callabasse and at the House of Blessing. I have attempted to phone Isaac several times today, but have not been able to get through. I have also emailed him, but have not received a response. Phone and email communication pathways are blocked due to damage and destruction.
I’ve spoken today with Phil Murphy, who has been in contact with people at the House of Blessing in Haiti (Phil and his wife, Lonnie, started the COP ministry in Haiti). All of the children at House of Blessing are fine (six are sponsored). The house received virtually no damage, due to the superior construction by Phil, with reinforced re-bar all through the house. The school that is being built nearby did sustain damage, but we don’t know the extent.
Phil has spoken with the director of House of Blessing, Tanya. While he was speaking with her, their home received several strong aftershocks. Phil instructed Tanya to leave the home until evaluation could be made of the home. Tanya’s husband has not been located. He was away at work when the earthquake hit, and they have not heard from him. Please pray for him and for Tanya as she awaits word from him.
Tanya has spoken by phone with Isaac Adrien, our COP director in Callabasse, Haiti. He is fine. However, at this point, we do not have information on the condition of the children in Callabasse. We do know that houses have been destroyed in the town and that people have been killed.
We are gathering information and assessing what needs our children and families have at the present moment. I will keep you posted as we learn more information.
Be praying for Isaac, Tanya, her husband Frankie, the kids at House of Blessing, and the COP kids and their families in Callabasse. Please pray also for Phil and Lonnie Murphy as they make decisions about how best to serve the people in Haiti in this crisis.
Dr. Paul L. Maxfield
Executive Director |