Video: Clinton on Haiti, the aftermath AND more ways to help

Candlelight vigils. Late night phone calls. Neighborhoods gathered in prayer. Missing children. Broken Families. Tears of sorrow. There is no doubt that the quake in Haiti has devastated the island nation. That is no longer a question. However, questions still remain about how we can help. Feelings of helplessness, strife, and fear have swept over people around the world. As reports pour in about a possible 50,000+ deaths, miraculous stories of survivors, and the unfathomable amount of damage people are wondering how they can help.

Although the images are graphic and the videos are grim, perhaps the sight of the devastation will move people who may be on the fence to decide to help. You can view aerial photos of the damage here.

To add insult to injury, scam artists have targeted people ready to donate. If you are concerned about the legitimacy of the relief efforts, CNN has composed a valid list of legitimate charities here.



The good news is relief efforts have intensified and donations have poured in. The demand level for aid is described by relief workers as "overwhelming." Search and rescue efforts are a top priority but there is still a need for basic supplies like food, water, blankets, clothing, toiletries, and medical supplies. Authorities admit they have been unable to transport a decent amount of already donated supplies due to a fallen trees, damaged communication networks and debris covered roads.

You can also text donations for Haiti relief from your cell phone. In addition to your donation amount, standard text messaging fees will apply.

Red Cross: Text HAITI to 90999 ($10 donation)
Yéle Haiti: Text YELE to 501501 ($5 donation)
United Way: Text HAITI to 864833 ($5 donation)
Intl Medical Corps: Text HAITI to 85944 ($10 donation)

Still looking for news on your loved ones? The U.S. State Department has set up a hotline for information on family members who may be in Haiti: (888) 407.4747. NOTE: This number is for information on U.S. citizens in Haiti only.

My heart is heavy with sympathy and concern for all people affected by this tragedy. As one personally affected, consider this my plea that all of you do what you can to help the people of Haiti in what is quickly becoming a nationwide catastrophe. Stand up and show that our generation is not as self-involved as we are portrayed. Organize efforts in your neighborhood. If you do not have money donate non-perishable food items and clothing. Find out more info about Red Cross donations here.

Check out previous posts about the quake in Haiti here and here.

For news updates click here.

Beautiful people of HUSL Today the devastation is too great to be ignored! The time is NOW to stand up and lend a helping hand to Haiti.