Haiti had only begun rebuilding after the catastrophic earthquake six years ago, when Hurricane Matthew slammed head-on into the island on October 3. It flooded entire villages, killed over a thousand people, and left many more thousands homeless. Haiti is again a disaster zone.

The eye of Hurricane Matthew barreled through the southern peninsula of Haiti, bringing with it 140 mph winds and 40 inches of rain. It quickly destroyed homes and buildings while dumping a seemingly endless amount of rain. The storm surge and flooding swept hundreds of people to their deaths, and did even more damage than the winds. Flooding not only wipes out entire villages completely off the map, but it also contaminates wells, destroys crops, and causes a myriad of other problems. Cholera becomes a very real threat after the flood waters recede. It is a potentially deadly disease, usually spread by contaminated drinking water. Haiti often has serious cholera epidemics, and chances are that the recent flooding will spawn an outbreak in the worst-hit areas.

There are about 20,000 believers in Haiti. Hundreds of them are without food, clean water, and shelter. There are food and building materials available for purchase on the island, so we are sending funds for the next 30 days to feed the 437 families who are in need of immediate assistance, and we will also be sending funds to help rebuild the homes of 318 families who lost everything. This number will probably grow as we receive more information. There is now a dedicated account for donations set up at VGR for those who would like to contribute. Please specify “Haiti Relief Fund” on any donations that you would like to apply to this project.

Most of all, these dear people would appreciate your thoughts and prayers. Haitian life has been difficult over the years, and it is a great comfort to know that the Bride of Christ around the world is standing together with them.

UPDATE: We have sent the first installment of $25,000 to purchase food for the believers.