Following the earthquake that struck Haiti with extraordinary vehemence, claiming — according to data from the local authorities -— at least 2,200 lives and injuring more than 12,000, as well as causing extensive material damage, Pope Francis, through the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, has decided to send an initial contribution of 200,000 euros to aid the population in this emergency phase, which adds to an already difficult situation due to Covid-19.
This sum, which in collaboration with the Apostolic Nunciature will be distributed among the dioceses most affected by the disaster, will be used to assist those impacted by the earthquake and is intended as an immediate expression of the Holy Father’s spiritual closeness and paternal encouragement towards the people and territories affected, as he expressed at the Angelus prayer in Saint Peter’s Square on Sunday, 15 August, with the invocation of Our Lady’s protection.
This contribution, which accompanies prayer in support of the beloved Haitian population, is part of the aid that is being activated throughout the Catholic Church and which involves various Episcopal Conferences, along with numerous charitable organizations.
The Holy Father has also decided to send initial emergency aid totalling approximately 69,000 dollars to the people of Bangladesh, recently hit by Cyclone Yaas; and 100,000 euros to the people of Vietnam, who are facing grave hardship due to the socio-economic consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic.