Help the People of Haiti

All talks of lipstick and fashion will be on pause today because I have spent the last few hours scared out of my mind. I tried, really I did, to create a witty or cute post on what you normally come to MissWhoever You Are to read, but I simply cannot. Just before 5pm on January 12, 2010 Haiti was hit with one of the worst earthquakes. No. THE worst earthquake that the poor little nation has ever faced.

As a Haitian American, I cannot begin to tell you the fear that rang through my body as I sat at home thinking of my grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins back home. To top it all off, there are reports of a possible tsunami that might hit the area. With a magnitude of 7.0, this earthquake has destroyed a hospital and many, many homes.

Thankfully, I've finally received word from a family friend that my family is doing fine. While their material possessions may have crumbled, everyone is safe and that's all that counts. If you have family or know someone in Haiti, please do not give up hope. It is still early and they are searching for everyone.

This is where we need to step it up and help our fellow mankind. Haiti has suffered a great deal both politically and environmentally. At this time, in 2008, the tiny country was desperately trying to recover after being hit with three hurricanes, back to back. This left the land in horrid condition making food scarce. And now with this earthquake and tsunami watch, they need our help.

Below are a list of charities in which you can donate funds to help the nation:
UNICEF
ICRC: International Committee of the Red Cross Haiti
YELE Haiti (Wyclef Jean's Charity Donate $5 to earthquake relief by texting 'Yele' to 501501 or visit yele.org

If you know of any other charities or hear any news, please feel free to leave them below and let everyone know. Thank you and please keep the Haitian people in your thoughts and prayers.

[UPDATE]: Americans seeking info about relatives in Haiti can call State Department at 888-407-4747