Money transfers that have been sent by family members to their loved ones in Haiti have slowed down and have almost completely stopped. This is not because the Haitians do not need the money or that their family members are not sending them money, but because the Haitians are unable to receive their money.
Previous to the first Haitian earthquake almost $1.9 billion was sent to Haiti annually. Even before the earthquakes Haiti depended on the money transfers for daily living because they are one of the poorest countries in the world. Statistics have shown that over 1/3 of Haiti survives because of the money transfers sent from the United States.
After the devastation of two earthquakes, there was only one money transfer firm that is able to fully open its door to the public. The other firms are able to function limited and are working hard to become fully functional. The money transfer firms realize that the Haitians need those money transfers even more now that many people are unable to work.
In addition to struggling money transfer firms,Haiti’s banks have been closed. This has left everyone in the same desperate state for money. Transfer firms had to wait for cash to be flown in from the United States. Since the cash arrived, more transfer offices have begun to operate. Due to the circumstances, the transfer companies that are operating have been omitting transfer fees.
Fernand Amandi has been working for the United Nations and IDB in Haiti for the past several years. He says money transfers are“…the most direct form of aid, from family member to family member, and the need is so stark now.” Money transfer services are a vital part of the disaster relief program and they are working hard to become fully functional again. Meanwhile, they are operating to the best of their ability and Haiti depends on these money transfers.
You could help these people to get the basic necessities of life by sending your own money transfer to Haiti. Check City can help you send a money transfer to any Western Union location in the world or to the recipient’s bank account. To send a transfer you will need your photo ID and either cash or a debit card. Find out more about how to send a money transfer by visiting Check City’s website.
To find out more about how vital money transfers are to Haiti visit: http://abcnews.go.com/Business/wireStory?id=9609180
