Reaching Out to Haiti Through Technology

(Time Magazine) In this new technological age where communication is immediate and information is delivered across state lines, countries, and continents as quickly as your fingers can type, it is no surprise that technology is also changing the way we respond to natural disasters and emergency relief. In the case of the devastating massive earthquake that hit Haiti's capital of Port-Au-Prince on January 12, 2010, text messaging and social media sites have become instantaneous fundraising and awareness tools in the wake of the tragedy.

Users on Twitter and Facebook are generating word-of-mouth buzz to help boost awareness of Haiti relief efforts. Immediately following the quake, news sources such as CNN turned to Twitter for first-hand reports in real time and images of the chaos posted by the site's users. On Facebook, a user group called Earthquake Haiti has drawn more than 120,000 members. The group's wall is filled with prayers and posts about missing friends and family members as well as news updates. The group is also publicizing a fundraising event for Yéle Haiti, an organization providing community service programs, food distribution, and emergency relief.

As harrowing images of the disaster leave an impression in our minds and we wonder how we can help the relief efforts, many people are giving generously through online donations and text messages. Within the first few days after the quake, organizations such as Catholic Relief Services, Yéle, and the American Red Cross began accepting donations through text messages. Users can text a phrase to a specific number and their donation will be billed to their cell phone account.

It may seem that technology creates a large gap between us, sometimes taking valuable time away from our families and friends. As we've seen with the crisis in Haiti, these tools can also help us respond faster and connect to one another as we raise global awareness, support relief efforts and attempt to help the people of Haiti rebuild and recover from this disaster.

Think About It:
What are some ways that you and your school, parish, and community can respond to the earthquake in Haiti?