"Are they really poor in Haiti or is their living conditions a part of their culture?"
An honest and innocent question by someone who has never been to Haiti or may never step foot into Haiti. This information is for you my friend and for those who may wonder whether my recounts of Haiti are somewhat exaggerated.
Yes, before the earthquake hit in January 2010 many Haitians were already living in poor conditions with Haiti being the poorest country in the Western hemisphere. These people may not have known anything different... but does that mean we can justify their living conditions as "normal" for them? Shouldn't every one have the right to clean running water and protective shelter?
Add to the nation's existing poverty the loss of 250,000 lives and 300,000 homes. This was the result of the 2010 quake. The rubble and ruins I've seen with my own eyes is NOT a part of the Haitian lifestyle and is definitely not the "norm" for the 1.5 million people who were made homeless that day.
Eighteen months on the situation has improved somewhat. There are now 700,000 homeless, who are still living in tent camps. My words will never be able to describe how much the people of Haiti still need our help. Japan has made great progress, just 3 months on from the quake and tsunami that affected the affluent nation. The people of Haiti deserve the same.
It brings me great joy to read online articles of not-for-profit organisations such as, Habitat for Humanity, who haven't forgotten Haiti and have plans in place to build new homes. My prayer is that you won't forget Haiti either.
