Haiti

Even the most insensitive should have been shocked by the situation in Haiti which has long held an unenviable record as one of the world's poorest countries. Tragedy brings out the best and the worst in human nature. In a Salvation Army children's home unaffected by the quake there are fears that it may be invaded by starving neighbours or gangs seeking any food thought to be within its walls, meagre though that may be. Getting supplies to desperately needy people is difficult because of roads clogged by debris and by people sleeping out for fear of being killed by masonry falling from any buildings. The UN Secretary General is at the scene and hopefully it may soon be possible to bring some order out of the chaos and much needed aid to the desperately needy. Prayer and financial assistance is all that most of us can offer - and should offer - to help.