Hope for Haiti

Haiti always seemed to me like a magical place, the kind of dream vacation-island with white beaches, clear blue waters, coconut trees, colorful houses and happy beats of music in the streets.

It should have been like that but in reality, Haiti is the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere.

It's been over a week since a 7.0 major earthquake struck southern Haiti. The biggest need now is money. Money to buy basic and medical supplies, money to restore damaged hospitals and schools and money to rebuild the many many homes that were destroyed.

There is a long list of organizations who help Haiti such as Doctors Without Borders, Partners in Health and so many others. Take a minute to check out who's doing what and how you can contribute, volunteer or donate supplies.

Many artists, craters and designers are holding fundraisers, auctions or donating portions of their sales to these efforts.

Here are some of the greatest opportunities for you to donate and stand for Haiti while embracing the craters and artists:

The Charity Print Auctions group on Flickr are a group of photographers who will donate 100% of the highest bid on their artworks to the Red Cross. The beautiful seagull photo above is one of the great photographs you will find there.

Indiefixx is coordinating a silent auction of items that have been donated by indie crafters and artists with 100% of the profits to go to the Red Cross International Response Fund.

Many Etsy sellers, including ourselves, are donating portions of their sales to different organizations. There are so many so it is hard to mention everyone. Victoria of sfgirlbybay published a great list of the many of sellers. Check it out!

Photographers For Haiti published a special fund-raising collection of captivating images to benefit the people of Haiti. Your purchase price will be donated in full to the American Red Cross

International Response Fund for Haiti relief.

I know there are many many other beautiful acts going on so if you know of others donating, please comment with your information. Thank you, and please spread the word!

Photograph: Haiti Appeal: Pigeons & Shadows by LJ