Earlier today, U.S. president Barack Obama briefed the media on the efforts to get aid into Haiti in a live press conference about an hour ago.
He pledged to send humanitarian aid to Haiti and said his thoughts and prayers were with the people of Haiti and their families stateside.
An earthquake measuring 7.0 on the Richter scale hit Port-au-Price, Haiti just after 5 p.m. Eastern time yesterday.
Thousands of buildings were leveled including hospitals, schools, and the Haitian palace as well as the UN building lay in ruins. Hundreds of thousands are feared dead in Port-au-Price which has a population of 2 million.
The U.S. in conjunction with other countries are sending multi-agency assistance to Haiti to provide disaster relief with an “aggressive focus on saving lives.” The Coast guard will arrive in Haiti later today to set up offshore floating medical hospitals.
Donations can be sent to Haitian native Wyclef Jean’s organization in $5 increments by texting YELE to 501501 on your cell phone. $5 will be added to your phone bill. You can make up to 6 donations via your cell phone.
To donate more money to the relief efforts in Haiti, visit www.yele.org.