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The island nation of Haiti experienced a 7.0-magnitude earthquake earlier today. Initial reports indicate that the earthquake caused significant damage, especially in the capital city of Port au Prince. The Haitian Red Cross is already on the ground providing assistance to individuals affected by the earthquake.
In response to today's devastating earthquake in Haiti, the American Red Cross has pledged an initial $200,000 to assist affected communities, and is prepared to take further action as local responders assess the situation. As with most earthquakes, the most immediate needs will be for food, water, temporary shelter, medical services and emotional support.
In the next few days, the American Red Cross expects to send an initial shipment of relief supplies from its warehouse in Panama, which will include kitchen supplies, mosquito nets, tarps and other materials to help those who have been made homeless. The Red Cross also plans to deploy a disaster management specialist to support Haitian Red Cross relief efforts. |