Congressman Al Green and Ambassador Raymond Joseph Call for a Sustained Commitment in Haiti
Houston, TX – March 1, 2010 – (RealEstateRama) — Congressman Al Green (TX-09) and His Excellency Raymond Joseph, Haitian Ambassador to the United States, discussed current conditions and humanitarian relief efforts in Haiti, following January’s 7.0 magnitude earthquake that devastated the island nation.
“Ambassador Joseph’s visit to Houston represents the need for sustained support as Haiti enters its next phase of recovery. Haiti faces many challenges ahead – rebuilding damaged transportation systems, hospitals, and homes. It is my sincere hope that the Houston community will continue to support Haiti as it moves from crisis to recovery. In the days immediately following the earthquake, Houstonians responded quickly and generously with their time, talents, and money. I commend the citizens of this city for their kindness in Haiti’s time of need,” said Congressman Al Green in a press conference.
In the wake of the earthquake’s vast destruction, Haiti’s infrastructures were severely damaged, making the rescue and recovery processes extremely difficult. While the situation has improved, there are still many factors that make the living conditions extremely hard, such as the scarcity of transitional housing. Moreover, the country finds itself fighting the risk of dangerous diseases, such as malaria and tuberculosis.
“Haiti is extremely grateful to the United States. As a neighboring nation, it has shown not only its enormous generosity, but also its leadership. My hope is that the next few months will keep allowing our two countries to collaborate in a rebuilding process that presents many challenges but that, at the same time, we face with a determined attitude to overcome this situation,” commented Ambassador Joseph.
The Congressman also pointed out the importance of the Haitian Diaspora. “The majority of Haitians who live abroad, mainly in the United States, Canada and France make great financial contributions to their country, mostly through their remittances. I am hopeful that the message that Ambassador Joseph is bringing today will touch those who live in Houston and will inspire them to keep working with the local groups that are coordinating the relief campaigns, as they have done since the earthquake occurred”, he concluded.
Today’s press conference was held at Memorial Hermann hospital, one of several hospitals in the Texas Medical Center that has collaborated in relief efforts for Haiti.
Contact:
Alvaro ‘Al’ Ortiz (Press Secretary)
Office Phone: (713) 383 9321
Cell Phone: (202) 527 1109
E-mail: Alvaro.Ortiz (at) mail.house (dot) gov
Internet: www.house.gov/algreen/
