FAIRFAX, Va. — In response to the devastating earthquake in Haiti on Jan. 12, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) has responded on behalf of the pest management industry with a commitment to help.  As Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince, has been overrun with pests including flies, rodents and mosquitoes in the aftermath of this natural disaster, the NPMA has contacted the Center of International Development, coordinators of in-kind donations, pledging the industry’s willingness to provide the inspection and treatment necessary to protect public health in the regions most impacted by the earthquake.

Although the NPMA does not yet know the full extent of how the industry’s services will be called upon, the association is preparing for when member efforts can be utilized. “Although we have yet to be selected by the Center of International Development to help, I am hopeful that our members will continue to outreach with their generosity and consider offering their expertise and services to build our arsenal,” says Rob Lederer, executive vice president of the NPMA.

Lederer adds that the association has already received pledges of services and support by many member companies. “We are extremely proud of the way our industry has united to support the humanitarian efforts in Haiti, and we thank you for your generous response,” says Lederer. 

Members who would like to pledge labor, materials, equipment or monetary donations are asked to contact Missy Henriksen, vice president of public affairs for the NPMA, via e-mail at mhenriksen@pestworld.org.