Aftershocks

This morning we felt more aftershocks of the earthquake. As we were eating breakfast, a 5.9 aftershock was felt here in Santiago. There were no damages in the DR from this quake. People in Haiti were heard shouting, "We're all going to die!"

We made a visit to the Red Cross here in Santiago to ask about the situation. The director met with us and answered our questions about the help needed to confront this tragedy.

Donations have been very generous and they are sorting them by need: those that can be used during the "emergency" stage, such as water, things in packages that can be easily opened, and bandages and diapers. Other goods such as food in cans will be distributed later on when things are more organized.

We asked him about the possibility of going personally into the country to help. He suggested that in order to do that, we get an armed guard from the Red Cross since violence is breaking out in Port au Prince and at the border also. We were warned about trying to go in alone. He also explained that it would be easier for organization if there are less people trying to do things on their own and everyone tries to work together. So if people want to help, he suggested joining the Red Cross and going in as a volunteer under their umbrella of support.

He also explained that blood supplies are low and bandages are sorely needed for surgeries and also bandages of any kind - supplies have run out in Haiti and are down to almost nothing here in the DR.

The information he gave was very helpful. We hope it has helped answer some of your questions also.