During August and September 2008, Haiti has faced hurricanes, cyclones and tropical storms all highlighting the Caribbean island's vulnerability to the elements.

There has been substantial material damage and loss of human life. The death toll from hurricane Hanna alone was more than 190.

The area most affected is the city of Gonaives which has been totally devastated. The city, located north of Haiti, also suffered the devastating effects of tropical depression 'Jeanne' in 2005 when more than 2,000 people died and there was extensive damage to the agricultural sector.

In one of the regions where Haiti Lifeline (Friends of the Earth Haiti) is assisting, the community of La Biche / Savane Brulée in the south east, property damage is widespread and there are about 597 head of cattle dead or missing.

Family homes have also been damaged, 50 houses, a school and a church have had there roofs blown off by hurricane Gustave, 14 houses have been completely destroyed by landslides and another 170 are seriously damaged. Plots of land were destroyed before they were harvested and gardens have been ravaged as tall trees, including fruit trees, were uprooted by the passage of the hurricanes.

Several people are now in staying in temporary shelters; 12 in the local cooperative - CASAB - and dozens more in a Baptist church. In addition, there is also damage to local infrastructure and several main roads are now inaccessible.

The families are in a very difficult situation and with such a level of damage there will be serious food shortages if no assistance is forthcoming.

Haiti Lifeline has launched a solidarity fund in support of the Savane Brilé community. So far the organization has distributed clothes and food but much more needs to be done. That's why we're calling on your support to help this community in their time of difficulty.

 You can make a donation here.