As the humanitarian crisis continues to grow in quake-hit Haiti, the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) has expanded its relief efforts by committing $1 million worth of emergency aid to assist survivors in the hardest hit areas.

”As an organization, we recognize the urgency that this disaster demands, and press forward to meet the most immediate needs of survivors,” said Charles Sandefur, president of ADRA International. “We will continue to do everything possible to alleviate the suffering of those affected in this incredible tragedy.”

As part of ADRA’s immediate response, an emergency assessment team also traveled to Port-au-Prince to begin coordinating the distribution of aid in the region. The group is expected to arrive in Haiti on Friday, January 15, to support the operations on the ground.

"On our way to Haiti, the expressions of solidarity from everyone we've met have been inspiring. People are encouraging and genuinely emotional regarding the events surrounding the earthquake,” said John Torres, a member of the ADRA International team headed to Haiti.

ADRA is partnering with Toronto-based Global Medic to provide medical aid for survivors through four mobile medical clinics, each of which can assist up to 1,000 patients a day. Survivors will receive other emergency items, such as water purification tablets, water treatment packets, and oral rehydration salt units. Water purification units and a portable water tester will also be available. These water treatment methods will provide clean drinking water for an estimated 90,000 people a day.

A donation of medical supplies from Heart to Heart International will help ADRA provide assistance to as many as 800 people. Supplies include antibiotics, vitamins, vinyl gloves, and over-the-counter pain relief medication.