MISSISSAUGA, Ont. - World Vision has mobilized its relief teams in Haiti in preparation for Hurricane Dean. Supplies of medicine, food, shelter materials, clothing and equipment are pre-positioned for an early response in case the hurricane hits any of the regions where World Vision operates.

Hurricane Dean, currently a category 2 hurricane, has already passed St. Lucia and Martinique and is intensifying as it makes its way through the Caribbean. Dean is expected to pick up strength, and may reach category 4 status before it hits Haiti.

Yesterday, the government of Haiti launched the Alert Phase 1 in response to the threat of high precipitation with possible flooding for the South peninsula. All coastal traffic operations are suspended on the entire south coastline from Friday 17 at nigh to Sunday night.

"Children and families in many parts of Haiti don't have the resources to recover after severe storm damage. Extreme poverty, and years of social and political turmoil and environmental degradation makes these disasters even harder on the children. It's vital that we are ready with aid," said Dave Toycen, president and CEO of World Vision Canada.

World Vision is accepting donations through our website WorldVision.ca or through our 1-800-268-5528 number to help those affected by the hurricane. Canadians sponsor more than 8,000 children in Haiti and we will monitor their safety as the storm passes.

World Vision is a Christian relief, development and advocacy organization dedicated to working with children, families and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. Motivated by our Christian faith, we serve all people regardless of religion, race, gender or ethnicity.

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For more information or to arrange interviews with World Vision staff, please contact:

Yoko Kobayashi
416-677-0086 (cell)
905-565-6200 ext. 2151
yoko_kobayashi@WorldVision.ca