Relief Donations a Welcome Surprise

 

The devastation in Haiti is so massive that it can be seen on Google Earth. Every second, and dollar donated, is critical as aid pours into the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. Much has been reported on the recordbreaking donations on this third day following the quake. Outpacing the funds donated for 2004 tsunami, the philanthropic efforts directed at Haiti have strengthened my belief in humanity. I am a cynicist, at heart, and two days ago expressed some grief concerning the 1st World’s lack of aid to economically stagnant 3rd World countries.

This wound has been worked on, however, by the unbelievable work America and the rest of the world is doing for the Haitian people. According to CNN.com (which, by the way, has done a superb job reporting on this disaster and should be credited as massively contributing to the available aid), as of Friday afternoon, corporate America has pledged more than $40 million in donations to support earthquake relief efforts in Haiti.

Celebrities, as well, including George Clooney, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie (surprise, surprise… this is a compliment), are contributing to Haiti relief efforts, according to ABC News. Clooney and MTV are working on a telethon for Haiti later this month, ABC said. The Clintons, also, have become involved and I have to say, after hearing Bill speak passionately on CNN today, my respect for his philanthropic efforts have increased, if that is possible. His efforts post-tsunami were amazing, as well.

Most impressive has been the text-donations. The masses have utilized this easy-to-give method to contribute in small chunks to this massive relief effort.

Even though I am sometimes quick to point out the apathy of the American people concerning many issues, this kind of turnout makes me shameful. Compared to the relief that has been given to Haiti thus far, my apathy runs deep.

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