Time.com learned about the Roots & Shoots Messages of Hope for Haiti project, and has posted a feature giving some examples of the work that members are submitting from around the Globe.Check out the gallery on Time.com.

The outpouring of hope from these messages has been so great! We have received more than 2,500 pieces in less than a month! Thank you to everyone who has contributed! These will certainly bring some hope to young people in Haiti as they survive through the recovery.

From 1/19/2010

Send Messages of Hope to young people in Haiti with the Roots & Shoots National Youth Leadership Council.

"It is our hope that with these messages from youth around the world, those affected by this calamity, will make it through another day a little easier. Consider sending a note, letter, poem, inspirational quote, song or artwork that shows your support and thoughts for the people of Haiti."

-From a recent message to the Roots & Shoots network from the Roots & Shoots National Youth Leadership Council.

See some examples of messages that have come in so far:

Send your messages of hope to:
Messages of Hope—Roots & Shoots
181 White Street, White Hall, Room 029
Danbury, Ct 06810

or via email to:

messagesofhope@janegoodall.org

From 1/12/10: Immense Earthquake wreaks havoc on Haiti

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On Tuesday a 7.0 magnitude earthquake hit Port-Au-Prince, the capital city of the island nation of Haiti. This earthquake has affected an estimated three million people, leveling homes, schools and disrupting essential services. The earthquake was so intense, "we even felt it in the western part of Puerto Rico," said Dr. Rick Asselta, Jane Goodall's Roots & Shoots Caribbean Coordinator. 

The people of Haiti, citizens of the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, need help in the face of this devastating natural disaster. "Roots & Shoots members can have an immediate impact by supporting organizations that are already working on the ground in Haiti," said Dr. Asselta. He adds, "Our Roots & Shoots group here will be meeting this weekend to discuss how we can do some fundraising projects." 

A great example of an organization to support is Save the Children. Save the Children has worked with youth in Haiti. They will ensure that children there will receive the things they need most-food, water, and child-friendly and safe spaces for more than 25 years.

Other organizations have also set up funds for aiding the relief effort in Haiti. If you're interested in contributing to general relief efforts, text "HAITI" to 90999, and $10.00 will be donated to the Red Cross. For contributing to delivering medical equipment and supplies, support AmeriCares Using their online donation form. 

As rescue efforts continue, and the process of rebuilding begins, every person who gives their support, helps build hope for the people of Haiti. In Haitian Creole they say, "Men anmpil chay pa lou," -Many hands make the load lighter. Help make the load lighter. Support the people of Haiti today. 

Roots & Shoots will continue to monitor the situation, and as new pertinent information is available, we will provide updates here.  If you have any questions, please feel free to send us an email. For groups in Latin America or in the Caribbean you are welcome to contact Dr. Rick Asselta at rasselta@janegoodall.org.