Update on Haiti

https://thepathofbliss.wildapricot.org/

The situation in Haiti has been deteriorating for the past few weeks, with violent protests, looting and people and vehicles being attacked on the streets. All schools are closed, and the streets are empty except for large demonstrations of people demanding political reform. But there are also large roving bands of rioters burning vehicles, looting stores, blocking roads. A number of people have been killed and many more seriously injured. For many in Port au Prince there is no water and no food, since trucks carrying produce and supplies are unable to get into the city.

Didi Ananda Jiivaprema and Didi Ananda Mahavrata are there in Port au Prince with our 24 children and various adults and helpers staying with them. So far, Didi and family are safe, although finding food has become a challenge. Didi said they are able to get water from a nearby spring, and so far no one has gotten sick. She was able, with the help of the local margiis, to buy a few sacks of rice and beans ( there are no fruits or vegetables available) and has started a Sadavrata program, distributing food in the local community.

She has also set up a Child Friendly Space at our center, providing a safe and uplifting place for the children in the area to come. With no school, and the constant fear of violence, it is important for these children to have a place to go that offers safety, engaging activities, and a semblance of normalcy. Initially over 80 children participated, but many many more are now coming. Didi anticipates hundreds will be showing up in the coming days.

There is somewhat of a lull in the violence today and tomorrow, with more violence and riots expected on Friday. Didi is hoping to go out today to the local Western Union office to collect some funds Amurtel is sending, which she can then use to secure more rice and beans for distribution. We will continue to stay in close touch with Didi and send funds as the situation allows.

The situation in Port au Prince and across Haiti is extremely volatile, with increased violence predicted if the current government leaders do not step down. We are hoping the Didis, children and the center will continue to remain safe, and able to help others. We will do whatever we can to assist them. If you would like to help support our Didis and children and the feeding program and Child Friendly Space during the time of intense instability in Haiti, you can send a tax deductible donation to Amurtel, and we will forward it on. You can either send a check to our main office or use paypal on the website- www.amurtel.org.

Thank you so much.

Amurtel
PO Box 232
Warren, VT 05674