Over the last year, we’ve been supporting a hospital in Cap-Haitien, Haiti’s second largest city, which provides a range of services to the population, including a fantastic maternity and pediatric unit.

Last month, THHT supporters provided a special Christmas blessing to women and babies in Haiti, by supporting it’s Maternity Unit, through the provision of some urgently needed funding, which supported 32 staff.

Whilst our team in the US were busy fundraising, our Haitian team were busy putting the funds to good use.  The Maternity Unit (also supported by the Haiti Hospital Appeal) had it’s busiest month ever, doing 66 deliveries.  22 of these were surgically assisted births, providing support to critical deliverers.

74% of births in Haiti take place at home without any medical support, placing women at great risk, with a 1 in 37 chance of dying during labor.  Haiti has the highest maternal mortality in the Western Hemisphere, despite being only 2 hours from our coast!  The Unit also supported 69 pre-natal consulations in December, ensuring women have the best care possible, in the lead up to their special day!

On the anniversary of the earthquake, the team we support in Haiti asked us to share their deep thanks to all those who continue to help.  Whilst the earthquake was three years ago, the needs in Haiti remain.  We’re committed to ensuring more women and babies are offered safe births in 2013.  On this memorable anniversary, please join with us today, in thought, prayer and action, and help us continue this urgent work.

Photo’s kindly provided by HHA