Our hearts are heavy for those affected by the earthquake in Haiti, as well as the families who are dealing with the devastation from afar. It is our prayer that sufficient aid is given to Haiti as they recover and that the hearts of those who have lost loved ones find healing through a relationship with Jesus Christ.

At this time, the immediate needs in Haiti are prayer and donations. Below are organizations that 88.3 WAFJ recognizes as reputable ministries who are bringing immediate aid to Haiti and who benefit from your support. Click on the organization's name to be directed to its website.

American Red Cross

Compassion International

Convoy of Hope

Mission Aviation Fellowship

Mission of Mercy

Salvation Army

Samaritan's Purse

Southern Baptist Disaster Relief

United Methodist Committee on Relief

World Vision

Soles4Souls is collecting gently used shoes to send to the people of Haiti. You can drop them off at Foot Solutions in the Mullins Crossing Shopping Center on Washington Road in Evans. They are open Monday through Friday from 10 to 6, Saturday 10 to 5 and closed on Sunday. Little Feet is a also collection center for this effort. They are located at 369 Highland Avenue, on the lower level of Surrey Center.

People who give to charities providing earthquake relief in Haiti can claim these donations on the tax return they are completing this season, according to the Internal Revenue Service. Taxpayers who itemize deductions on their 2009 return qualify for this special tax relief provision, enacted Jan. 22. Only cash contributions made to these charities after Jan. 11, 2010, and before March 1, 2010, are eligible. This includes contributions made by text message, check, credit card or debit card. See www.irs.gov for more information.