Even though the communications infrastructure in earthquake-ravaged Haiti is being rebuilt, there is still need for Amateur Radio communications. To assist in this effort, the ARRL's Ham-Aid program is providing equipment for local amateurs to use.

On Friday, January 22, the League sent a programmed Yaesu VHF repeater with a microphone, as well as ICOM handheld transceivers, Yaesu mobile 2 meter rigs with power supplies and Kenwood mobile 2 meter rigs. Comet antennas, Larsen mobile antennas with magnet mounts, coax and batteries were also included in the package that was shipped to the home of the President of the Radio Club Dominicano (RCD) for distribution. Most items were donated by their manufacturers; the repeater and power supplies were purchased several years ago using post-Hurricane Katrina grant funds.

"In the horror of this tragedy, there still are stars and the cooperation between the ARRL, IARU Region 2 and the Radio Club Dominicano and has been bright," said ARRL Media and Public Relations Manager Allen Pitts, W1AGP. "It was donations from our members and friends that began the Ham Aid program in Katrina's aftermath. Now once again, that sharing between hams will provide help in another worst-case incident. ARRL members and donors need to know that their gifts will be used very well indeed."

How You Can Help in Haiti

The ARRL Ham Aid Fund welcomes your contribution! In 2005, the ARRL established the Ham Aid Fund to accept contributions in support of Amateur Radio's response to Hurricane Katrina and hams responded generously to help ARRL send equipment to the affected area. "Now we are facing another devastating event in Haiti and Amateur Radio is ready to respond," said ARRL Chief Development Officer Mary Hobart, K1MMH. "With equipment contributed by our generous industry partners, the ARRL invites contributions to the Ham Aid Fund from hams who wish to help ARRL deploy equipment where it is needed most. Contributions from Amateur Radio clubs and individuals in any amount will go directly to supporting Amateur Radio's response efforts in Haiti."

Hobart explained that the easiest way to get your donation to work is to give via credit card on the ARRL’s secure Web site. Checks may be made payable to ARRL Ham Aid and sent to 225 Main St, Newington CT 06111. For more information, contact ARRL Chief Development Officer Mary Hobart, K1MMH, via e-mail or by telephone at (860) 594-0307.