WASHINGTON - January 13 - Today, the Service Employees International Union released this statement by International President Andy Stern on the devastating earthquake in Haiti:

“The whole world is watching the devastation in Haiti following yesterday’s earthquake with horror, compassion and desire to act. 

“This catastrophe calls on each of us to do what we can to ease suffering and help the survivors get past this tragedy and rebuild their lives.

“The Service Employees International Union, both as a home to a large Haitian population with family directly impacted and as the largest union of healthcare workers in North America, will support efforts to help Haiti recover.

“SEIU is developing a relief initiative, Help Haiti, to direct donations from our members, our locals and the general public to effective respite and aid organizations once a needs assessment has been completed.  At this time, we are asking that people direct their donations to the International Relief Fund of the American Red Cross.  Please check SEIU.org over the next few days to learn of other ways and organizations that you can help.

“At the same time, SEIU Healthcare members – nurses, personal care assistants, doctors and others – are mobilizing to determine the types of direct support needed by the people of Haiti. We are coordinating with federal agencies, non-governmental organizations and the service and relief communities and we are recruiting healthcare workers for possible deployment once more information is known.

A tragedy of this magnitude knows no borders.  SEIU will stand by our sisters and brothers in Haiti – and we will do all we can to help.

To give to Help Haiti, click HERE.