Scouts respond to cry for relief in Haiti
The news coming out of Haiti is very grave. So many citizens are missing or are in need of immediate care. “Our hearts and prayers go out to those suffering at this very difficult time,” said BSA International Commissioner Jim Turley.
There is one small beacon of hope. World Scouting has been in contact with a member of the Scouts and Guides of France who happened to be in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, during this horrific earthquake. “This Scouter reports that our brother and sister Scouts are helping in the relief effort. No one should ever underestimate the power of Scouting! ‘Be Prepared’ are not just words on a piece of paper. Rather, they are a call to action,” explained Turley.
Agencies trained in disaster relief are already on the ground in Haiti. Additionally, the U.S. is sending military troops and supplies to further assist rescue and relief efforts. But there are still a number of ways members of the BSA can help in Haiti. The biggest need right now is financial resources to purchase emergency supplies; later it will be to help rebuild once the emergency of the coming days has passed.
The Boy Scouts of America is rallying its troops in an effort to join the World Organization of the Scouting Movement (WOSM) in assisting families devastated by recent earthquakes as many Scouts and Scouters have been looking for ways to assist in Haitian relief efforts. After communicating with officials of WOSM on current, mid-term and long term needs of the Haitian people, the BSA has decided to focus on sending new tents and new sleeping bags to assist those who have no shelter.
You can help the BSA effort by making a contribution to BSA’s World Friendship Fund. Contributions to this fund are tax deductable and will help provide much needed shelter and sleeping comfort to those who have lost their homes. Donations to the World Friendship Fund can be made online by clicking here or by giving through your local council. Additionally, you can support the efforts of our friends at the American Red Cross or the Salvation Army. Contact your local American Red Cross chapter or your local Salvation Army Corps community center for more information.
Many councils and units have considered starting or have already implemented relief efforts on their own. While the effort and concern is admirable, the BSA discourages such efforts due to the complexities of shipping and distribution. The BSA is working with the WOSM to ensure shipping, necessary storage, and a smooth distribution system. Therefore, financial contributions are by far the most effective means of support at this time.
Throughout its first 100 years, the BSA has been known for coming to the aid of those who are in need. As the organization begins its second century, the need is indeed great. Fortunately, the BSA’s commitment of service to others is just as strong today as it was in 1910. This is an opportunity to involve Scouts and Scouters at every level in a “good turn” that will make a significant difference in thousands of lives.
Roger Schrimp, chairman of the BSA’s International Committee, adds, “At the end of the day, it does not matter how big or small an individual’s contribution is. We all give what we can afford. That’s what we do in Scouting. These are our friends, our fellow Scouts. They need our help. ‘On my honor, I will do my best!’ is a pledge that each of us has taken as a Scout.”