7 million Haitians survive on less than $3.65 per day
2 million Haitians survive on less than $2.15 per day
50% of Haitian children suffer from chronic malnutrition
Haiti is the 10th poorest economy in the world
Multiple decades of political instability in Haiti have hampered economic development and stifled investment in crucial sectors such as healthcare, education, and sanitation. Corruption, violence, and a lack of infrastructure contribute to this ongoing issue, leading to a breakdown of law and order. As a result, a large percentage of the population has been forced into exile, leaving behind a vulnerable population on the island. While the poverty rate is alarming, it’s been declining since it peaked in 2005 at 80%.
Earthquakes and hurricanes are major poverty causes. The 2010 earthquake caused widespread displacement, with an estimated 1.5 million people left homeless. The 2021 earthquake’s impact was just as devastating. The combined impact of hurricanes and earthquakes results in loss of lives, injuries, damage to critical infrastructure, and disruption to agricultural production, leading to food insecurity that quickly escalates to the humanitarian crisis level.
Haiti faces an unprecedented food crisis, ranking the worst in the world. Despite agriculture playing a vital role in the economy, Haiti imports a staggering 80% of its staple food—rice—due to abysmal yields within the agricultural sector. With just 10% of agricultural lands irrigated, Haiti's dependence on rainfall further exacerbates the challenges. The consequences are dire, with one in three children experiencing stunted growth and 100,000 children suffering from acute malnutrition.
Food for the Poor has fought poverty in Haiti since 1995. We've seen its devastating effects firsthand and know that transformation is urgent. Our programs address immediate humanitarian needs and provide sustainable assistance through community development outreach and self-reliance. Fund our programs to help communities turn despair into resilience.
In recent days, a surge of violence in Haiti has forced at least 360,000 people out of their homes. Food For The Poor’s distribution centers need more resources to serve the 4 million people who are now facing acute food insecurity. Help us restock and ship more containers to respond to the immediate crisis and prepare the recovery efforts to help internally displaced families return home.
Help us fund a family’s journey out of poverty with a donation. Browse through our gift catalog to provide immediate relief, bolster self-reliance, or bring hope. With a simple act of solidarity, you can truly impact someone’s life for the better.
