The news over the past week has been overwhelming. So much chaos and tragedy, that it’s easy to lose hope. We can see what’s happening across the globe and often ask ourselves, what can we do?
As we’ve wrestled with these same thoughts here at Hatch Creatives we’ve resourced a number of ways that you can help your community and those around the world.
Here’s what we know.
After 20 years of military occupancy, this month the United States withdrew its troops from Afghanistan. Since then the Taliban has overtaken most of the country and with this repressive regime back in power, many are left vulnerable to violence and retribution for what the Taliban sees as a betrayal of their nation and laws–especially vulnerable are women and girls.
On Saturday, August 14 a 7.2 magnitude earthquake hit the country of Haiti. Barely recuperated from a massive earthquake in 2010, the country has once again been left in ruins with many dead or displaced. With scarce resources the county is still assessing the death toll and damage left behind.
What can we do?
1. Reach Out
Reach out to those around you who might be feeling overwhelmed or anxious by the news. Especially if you have friends who belong to these affected communities.
2. Donate
If you can, donate. These countries are hurting and in need of resources to combat what’s happening. Here are some organizations you can look into and give to:
They are providing relief in Haiti through their Crisis Relief Fund.
CARE has been providing help to vulnerable populations (including women and girls) for over 75 years. They’ve set up a special Afghanistan Humanitarian Fund to help those displaced from their homes by providing food, shelter, and protection. They also set up a Haiti Crisis Fund to help provide health services, and emergency aid.
As the largest women’s organization in Afghanistan, WAW is working tirelessly to ensure those currently in the country are safe by providing aid and resources to women, children, and families.
This organization takes donated miles, credit card points and cash to help reunite displaced families with loved ones. By donating you can help people who can’t afford airfare flee from persecution.
Founded after the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, this organization is back at it by helping provide food and meals to first responders and families affected by the earthquake.
3. Stay Informed
It’s important to stay informed while still setting boundaries to ensure your mental health is protected. Research where the information is coming from and share what is helpful.
These are hard times but as a community that cares for you we know we can support one another and those in need.
Brendy Garcia is a native Floridian with Caribbean roots. She enjoys talking about all things movies, pop culture, and female empowerment! Museums are her natural habitat and podcasts are her spirit animal.