To assist in relocating earthquake-displaced Haitians back to their home communities, the Salvation Army World Service Office (SAWSO) has completed the construction of 600 housing shelters its Transitional Shelter Program in Jacmel, Haiti.
According to the SAWSO press office, over the past six months the organization has “transitioned from providing for immediate needs, including temporary shelter, food, water and medical attention to providing long-term recovery services to help return survivors to a level of normalcy in their lives. The long-term rebuilding process has employed more than 400 Haitians as carpenters and construction crew-members to assist in reconstruction efforts. “
Lt. Colonel Dan Starrett Executive Director of SAWSO said, “Housing shelters have been built in some of the most heavily impacted areas in Haiti, including Jacmel, Bainet, Lilette and Bellami..”
Haitian officials and residents worked with SAWSO to plan and manage the transitional housing shelters project which has allowed for a quick design and building process., said project coordinator, Lyle Laverty.
Haitian workers were trained by a transitional housing team. Others have been hired to clear land for the construction of the homes. In all, more than 400 Haitians, comprising at least 45 construction teams, were trained to supervise and build 600 homes. With hurricane season here, more shelters are planned.
The shelters, standing 10 by 20 feet, are designed to last one to three- years. Overall, approximately 3,000 individuals will be receiving a new home – at an average of five per household.
Following the construction of the 600 shelters in Jacmel, which began on June 5, SAWSO will work with government officials in Haiti to plan the second phase of development for an additional 500 homes in Jacmel and another 1,000-1,500 homes in Petit-Goâve. Each home takes one day to complete, with each costing approximately $1,800.
About Glenn Meyers
That’s great short-term news, but why temporary? A group of friends and I built a permanent house that’s earthquake and hurricane safe for just twice the amount of money. It also took 2 weeks to complete, but we had limited labor. I mean, what happens in 1-3 years? What then?
That’s great short-term news, but why temporary? A group of friends and I built a permanent house that’s earthquake and hurricane safe for just twice the amount of money. It also took 2 weeks to complete, but we had limited labor. I mean, what happens in 1-3 years? What then?
Why use other people’s misery to gain attention to your work?
!!!
Hi Jason,
Thank you for your comment. I don’t think that was Glenn’s intentions. I think the purpose of this post was to highlight how we can turn tragedy into something positive. Of course, none of us wanted the earthquake in Haiti to happen in the first place; however, rebuilding is part of the process and we are commending the use of local workers by Salvation Army to revitalize Haiti after this natural disaster.