Katie Paterson: Where is Haiti Now? Heart of Haiti Project

As we come to the anniversary of the devastating earthquakes in Haiti, we start to have our thoughts wonder back to the country and we wonder, Where are they now? The quake on Jan. 12, 2010, killed 200,000 people across Haiti, including 58 Canadians, and left hundreds of thousands more homeless.

After all the front line efforts that were made to raise funds shortly after the life altering event I wonder where do they stand now? Have we forgotten about them and moved on with our lives since they feel so far away? I find myself asking when was the last time I have thought about the earthquake the destroyed Haiti? Honestly, not since last February when all the "hype" and celebrity funding winded down and we moved onto the next big story. That is hard to admit but it was definitely an eye opener for how my charity focus can come on go based on which celebrity is backing up the newest trendy cause.

Through the Clever Girls Collective the organization founded by Willa Shalit, Heart of Haiti was brought to my attention. This is one organization that has taken strides to continue to support Haiti in this time of need. In partnership with Macy's they are providing a channel for Haitian artisans to sell handcrafted goods tot he mass in the US.

Here is what the Heart of Haiti Organization has to say:

"From recycled oil drums and wrought iron to paper mache and stone, Haitian artisans transform some of the most unlikely materials into extraordinary art. These one-of-a-kind crafts reflect a rich culture and history and the Haitians unwavering drive to rebuild their lives in the face of tremendous adversity.

Give a Gift that Gives Back
Proceeds form Heart of Haiti purchases help provide better nutrition, improve education and health care-life-changing resources for the artisans and their families."

In partnership with Fairwinds Trading and BrandAid Haiti

For more information follow this link - http://bit.ly/HeartofHaiti-ShopforABetterWorld

My only other wish is that a Canadian department store a would join forces with Macy's to bring these items to Canada. What to you think The Bay?Any other takers??

You can find Heart of Haiti on Twitter (hashtag: #HeartofHaiti) and Facebook.

K. Paterson

I was selected for this very special “CleverHaiti” opportunity by Clever Girls Collective, which endorses Blog With Integrity. All opinions are my own.