Sandy Causes Livestock Deaths, Crop Damage in Haiti Projects

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (Oct. 29, 2012) - Hundreds of animals and thousands of dollars in crops are among the losses suffered by Heifer International project participants in Haiti after Tropical Storm Sandy passed near the island nation late last week. The storm, which is now a Category 1 hurricane slamming into the East Coast of the United States, caused 51 deaths in Haiti, mainly due to flooding after heavy rains.

Heifer International’s Haiti country staff continue to assess damage to projects after several days of steady rain. Heifer Haiti Country Director Hervil Cherubin reports that 611 animals have been killed or are unaccounted for following the storm, including 361 goats, 183 fowl, and 91 sheep. In addition, project participants suffered $435,972 in crop damage and the loss of one fishing boat. Some 289 homes in project communities have been damaged, and 42 houses destroyed.

“It has been four or five days since we saw the sun,” said Cherubin. “Better days are in front of us.”

Rivers in Haiti remain out of their banks and many roads are still impassable, with the southern part of the country most severely affected. Heifer Haiti staff will continue to provide updated assessments and recommendations for response.

About Heifer International:
Heifer’s mission is to end hunger and poverty while caring for the Earth. Since 1944, Heifer International has provided livestock and environmentally sound agricultural training to improve the lives of those who struggle daily for reliable sources of food and income. Heifer is currently working in 40 countries, including the United States, to help families and communities become more self-reliant. For more information, visit www.heifer.org or call (800) 696-1918.