Gertha Alerte lives in Delmas 60, a densely populated neighborhood in Port-au-Prince where most of the houses were damaged by the January 12, 2010 earthquake. Gertha's house partially collapsed, killing her young nephew and injuring her mother. "I know now that my house collapsed because it was not well built," she said after participating in Build Change's Homeowners' training workshop.
"Even though I don't know when I'll be able to rebuild my house, I know now how to build it right, and I want to thank Build Change for that. Your training is great, and you should keep up with your excellent work."
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| Gertha Alerta, Resident of Delmas 60. |
With funding from USAID OFDA, Build Change has already provided basic training on hurricane and earthquake-resistant construction to 700 homeowners like Gertha. Plus, more than 290 Haitian builders have joined our three-day builders training workshop. We are developing simple messages and technical resources for safe reconstruction, with distribution to begin on the anniversary of the earthquake.
This is just a start. In 2011, we will expand these programs to provide hands-on-technical assistance and training during reconstruction to at least 2,400 families. In partnership with Haitian training schools, we will kick off a vocational training program aimed at building the skills of 2,000 Haitian workers, and placing them in much needed apprenticeships and reconstruction jobs. And, we will continue to work in partnership with the Ministry of Public Works to develop simple yet cost effective standards for rebuilding safe homes.
We, and the Haitian people, who are resilient despite incredible odds, strongly hope we can rely on your continued support over the next year. Your contribution can truly help empower Haitians to build back better.
On behalf of the growing Build Change team in Haiti, China, Indonesia, and the U.S., I would like to wish you and your family a happy and safe holiday season and joyful New Year!
Best Wishes,
Elizabeth Hausler
Founder and CEO
Build Change
