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Cruise lines departing from Port Canaveral have begun delivering aid and support to the people of Haiti who were devastated recently by an earthquake. Royal Caribbean has been returning to Labadee, the cruise line’s private island 100 miles from Port-au-Prince, with pallets of supplies for aid and passengers eager to support the Haitians employed by the cruise line.
 
“I support the cruise lines decision to continue operating in the Caribbean and integrating earthquake relief into their operations, and I encourage others to assist with relief efforts,” said Congressman Bill Posey (R-Rockledge). “Royal Caribbean and other lines are vital to our local economy and provide employment to Haitians as well.  A disruption in operations would devastate many Haitians whose income is dependent on visiting tourists.”

“Further, because of our proximity to Haiti, Florida will be on the front lines of the relief efforts. I am so proud of Port Canaveral and the Commercial Cruise lines for recognizing they are in a unique position to help deliver supplies and food to the people in need. Americans want to help and we are grateful they are helping to facilitate this outpouring of generosity.”
 
Carnival Corporation announced it will donate $5 million in humanitarian relief toward Haiti via different international organizations. Royal Caribbean has committed $1 million in relief including a portion to the company’s Crew Relief Fund which provides assistance to the company’s more than 200 Haitian crewmembers. Port Canaveral has partnered with Royal Caribbean to collect goods to be transported to Haiti aboard Freedom. Donations will be accepted at the Maritime Center until noon on Friday for Sunday’s sailing. For information about donating for future sailings people should contact the Cape Canaveral Port Authority or check Congressman Posey’s website.