The mud on the streets greatly hampers the distribution of aid, and, to date, some 3,000 people have died, 1,056 have disappeared, and 300,000 are homeless.
Caritas-Haiti is assisting 5,600 displaced persons in Gonaives, the most affected area. Thirty volunteers are working in reception centers, responding to urgent food and health needs and distributing essential goods.
Each aid parcel contains soap, detergent, brush, deodorant, toilet paper, dishes, cutlery, and pots and pans.
Medical care and the distribution of sanitary products are important for the prevention of epidemics, given the lack of potable water.
Some survivors of the floods are being paid by Caritas to clean the streets and public places. Humanitarian agents are taking special precautions so as not to be identified, as small bands of desperate individuals are targeting humanitarian convoys.
Caritas Internationalis has called on its affiliates worldwide to assist their sister organization in the Caribbean country.
