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The Children of Haiti
Devastation has been beamed into our living rooms, radios and newspapers. Graphic pictures show the extent of the suffering and damage done to countless families in Haiti.
 Children are being badly affected by this disaster. They are dependant on adults and now many have been separated, making them vulnerable. Under 18s make up over half of Haiti’s 10 million population. Haiti already has the highest infant and child mortality rates in the Western Hemisphere, and there is huge risk of tuberculosis, diarrhoea and measles spreading.
Save the Children’s emergency team leader in Port-au-Prince, Annie Foster said yesterday "Children and families are still sleeping in the open, among the rubble. They are very vulnerable”
Gareth Owen, Save the Children's director of emergencies added children are 'struggling to survive alone in the rubble. They are sleeping on their own, trying to cope with the trauma of seeing dead bodies, and will have no idea where to go for help'
God calls us ‘to look after orphans … in their distress’ (Jas 1v27) and Jesus told his disciples ‘"Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these"’ (Mark 10v4).
Please join with us in prayer for the children of Haiti. Pray for those who have lots parents and loved ones that God will comfort them. Pray for those who have lots their homes, that God will protect them and they will find safe places to sleep. Pray against disease spreading and that food, water and medicine would reach the vulnerable children who need it most.
We are aware that many CSM members sponsor children through international aid agencies. Many may still be waiting to hear news about their child. We remember these children in particular, that the Lord will keep them safe and well, and that news will come through about where they are.
We are aware of these particular stories, please remember these children in your prayers and use their stories to inspire you to pray for all Haiti's children.
Merline Bellandur lives with her family in Thiotte, on the edge of the earthquake zone. She is a young girl sponsored by a CSM member through Action Aid. She sends her sponsors regular letters and drawings. Pray that aid can reach her community despite the damaged infrastructure and for protection and provision for her.
Ertha is a teenage girl sponsored by a CSM member through Compassion International. She lives in Port Au Prince with her family, and at the time the earthquake hit she was at school to the south of where the earthquake hit. Please pray that she has been kept safe and that information will arrive soon.
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Esther Barlow, 22/01/2010 |
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