Older people in Haiti have shown determination and resilience in the face of disaster. The United Nations declared them the most vulnerable group following the earthquake, without the strength or stamina of younger people, or the ability to access relief supplies and medical care.

Emergency relief from Age UK - distributed through our sister organisation HelpAge International - has helped save the lives of many older people. Essential medication and care, food, drinking water and ‘wellbeing’ kits (including cash, buckets, soap, bleach, washing powder and toilet paper) have made survival possible through the chaotic and terrifying period following the quake.

As the long process of rebuilding Haiti begins, we are appealing to you to help us meet the ongoing needs of older survivors, Masouer has no family - she does not even know how old she is. What she does know is, that following the earthquake, she did not eat for days or receive any medical help. Then our emergency relief team arrived. Masouer says, "I have no family. It is you alone that takes notice. It is you who are my family."

Age UK and HelpAge International are now developing long-term recovery plans in Haiti including specialist healthcare for older people. Michael Andreini, one of our emergency coordinators in Haiti says ‘We want to make health facilities more accessible for older people, so that their safety and protection is a priority’.

Please give generously to make sure that the survivors of the earthquake can rebuild their lives.