Governor and Maine Legislature Express Support for Haiti

Press Release

January 14, 2010

Cash Donations the Best Way to Assist Earthquake Recovery

AUGUSTA - Governor John E. Baldacci and the State Legislature today joined to express Maine's support for the people of Haiti. In a State House press conference held with the Maine chapters of the American Red Cross, the Governor and members of the Legislature said that there's been an outpouring of support from Maine people to assist relief efforts in Haiti following the devastating earthquake that hit Tuesday.

"The tragedy of - and still-unfolding events in - Haiti have caused us to take stock and reflect upon our blessings here at home, upon the fragility of life, and upon our global family," said Governor Baldacci. "That's why we are called here today to say that Maine stands as one with those struggling to survive in Haiti. The unimaginable loss of life and the continuing dire needs of those who survived the earthquake in Haiti have touched us all. As Mainers frequently do -- even in this time of great economic distress here at home -- we are eager to help."

"In spite of the difficult times here at home, Mainers are once again rising to the occasion and doing what they can to help the people of Haiti get through this terrible tragedy," said Senate President Elizabeth Mitchell. "These acts of charity will strengthen the relief effort as the international community works to rescue victims and eventually rebuild the country."

"The devastation caused by the recent earthquake in Haiti is a tragedy beyond measure and another set-back for an already struggling nation," said Speaker of the House Hannah Pingree. "It is important for all of us, members of the international community, to keep the survivors of this disaster in our thoughts and lend support where we can."

"At a time like this, we all put aside partisan differences and come together to assist those who are facing unimaginable devastation," said Senator Jonathan Courtney, Assistant Minority Leader of the Senate. "We stand with the Governor and wholeheartedly support his efforts to enlist help for the people of Haiti."

"Mainers are a generous people, and it's heartening to see the outpouring of support for the victims of this earthquake," said House Republican Leader Josh Tardy. "We can never know what nature has in store for us, but it's good to see people pulling together when a disaster like this strikes."

The Governor, Legislators and the Red Cross said that the best way to help Haitians is to make a monetary donation to a trusted relief agency. The U.S. State Department's U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the lead agency for the country's response, advises that cash donations can be put to work immediately by relief agencies already on the ground.

Following major disasters, many people want to immediately provide goods or services, or go to the area to help, but the Governor said that there is no infrastructure to support independent volunteers or unsolicited goods.

The Governor also reminds Mainers who want to help the people in Haiti that they should be sure they are giving through a reputable organization. A list of relief organizations follow.

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