The Ups and Downs

Bryan spent most of the day trying to get his hands on some of the acres and acres of supplies and food at the airport and docks. He, along with hundreds of other small organizations throughout Port-au-Prince, could distribute food to thousands of people who are still unreached, at their own expense. Many have connections, vehicles, and manpower...but no food.

Instead, Bryan was directed from one person to the next from morning until late afternoon, before finally being turned away by USAID, who has taken control of food distribution from the U.S. military. And the control won't be shared.

The USAID woman in charge told him that "there is plenty of food getting to the people." Perhaps that is true in some areas (the areas they are servicing) ...but not ours, and especially not in the villages experiencing the influx of hundreds of thousands of refugees. But there was no convincing her otherwise. I guess she has a funny idea of what "plenty" means. Her stomach must be full tonight.

Bryan was more than angry, as was Duane, who had accompanied him. Bryan finally told Duane to go help the Haitians, who are still clearing rubble at the site in Carrefour. Duane was happy to forego any more beaurocratic runaround and gladly got his hands dirty. I'm sure the work helped him to simmer down, but Bry was still pretty frustrated when we spoke. He told me it's a good thing I wasn't with them because I would be in jail by now. I told him I could bunk with the Baptist "traffickers." :)

Amy and Kate spent the entire day moving from camp to camp, treating the sick. Amy said she was seeing things that still couldn't be treated for lack of supplies. Amy was flushed red with the heat and the work, but in her element, as was Kate.

Bryan wants to get to Jeremie tomorrow, but is beginning to doubt that they'll be able to make it. Flights to Jeremie are sporadic and seats are difficult to come by, and Jon's fuel supply wouldn't hold out for him to fly them, since there is no ability to refuel in Port-au-Prince. It has been a frustrating day for him. Pray that tomorrow is more profitable and that he will be encouraged.

There is a Danish organization that has building supplies they are giving to people who have cleared their plots of rubble. Apparently, they are little temporary homes with tin roofs that can be easily erected. That is an exciting prospect to many who are left, who are literally starting over from scratch.

There is great affection among the Haitian people for the Americans right now. Not so much for the UN, however, which the people see as an idle military presence, both historically in Haiti, and currently. They have seen the U.S. military presence in Haiti during this crisis as active and kind. So thumbs up to our men and women in Haiti. This is great news for us Americans who have worked there, since it will make it relatively easier to get things done.

Bryan confirmed that it is true. Of the thirty people holding senate seats in Haiti, 20 senators are dead. No comment.