2% of USAID’s funds Helped The 2010 Haitian Earthquake Victims

The 2010 Haiti earthquake, a catastrophic 7.0 magnitude event, claimed between 230,000 and 316,000 lives and displaced 1.5 million people, triggering an international aid response of $13.5 billion, including $4.4 billion from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). However, a 2015 investigation by ProPublica and NPR highlighted significant mismanagement, revealing that only 2% of USAID’s funds directly reached Haitians, with 56% benefiting D.C.-based firms. Similarly, the American Red Cross, which raised $488 million, fell far short of its promises, building just six permanent homes despite claiming to shelter 130,000 people, underscoring a lack of transparency and accountability in the aid process.

The post also touches on broader allegations of corruption tied to Haiti’s relief efforts, particularly involving the Clinton family. The Clinton Bush Haiti Fund, established by former Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, raised $50 million for recovery efforts, but scrutiny over its impact has persisted. Combined with reports of irregularities in contracts and funds, as noted in audits and articles like those in The Washington Post, the post reflects ongoing public frustration and calls for accountability regarding how billions in aid were distributed, leaving many Haitians with little tangible support despite the massive influx of resources.