There are talks of 1,300 dead and around 6,000 injured so far after the earthquake that hit southwestern Haiti on Saturday. The Hope Star's activities, including their seven schools, have not been affected, but the aid organization is ready to help where needed, even if it becomes difficult. The current chaos after the country's president Jovenel Moïse was assassinated in his home in early July and the tropical storm Grace that draws in towards the poor country means that help is delayed.
- It is not possible to drive down to the affected area because gangs block the only road and shoot and loot.
To get there you need a helicopter or a boat.
Then if the hurricane pulls over our projects, our first responsibility is to help there.
But we have constant contact with our staff on site and have started collecting money because efforts will be needed, says the organization's operations manager Ulrika Kallin Eriksson.
"Strong people"
Since its independence more than 200 years ago, Haiti has a history fraught with political chaos and influence from other countries.
In addition, the country is exposed to tropical storms and also earthquakes.
Three factors that constantly affect those living in Haiti.
- It is strong personalities who build up what is destroyed and have faith in the future in my opinion. I think this has made the people extremely strong, says Ulrika Kallin Eriksson.