“My thoughts and prayers go out to the people of Haiti and to the Haitian-American community in the Ninth District and across the country who may have lost loved ones in this devastating tragedy.

I am heartened to see the outpouring of sympathy and support from the American people and across the Globe.

The United States has joined a massive humanitarian operation with the international community and I commend all the men and women who are involved in relief efforts in Haiti.

Our Boston and Brockton offices have been in contact with many Haitian-American families who are trying to locate loved ones who are living in the earthquake-impacted areas.

We have also been in contact with the State Department which has established a Haitian Task Force desk. There is a toll free number for people to call and get information on family members. The number is 1-888-407-4747. We have spoken with the Western Hemisphere's Chief for American Citizens Services and Crisis Management and we were informed that flights have been taking off with U.S. citizens and they are trying to get the word out in every way possible to let Americans know that they will be evacuated. We have been assured that everything is being done to assist American citizens living or travelling in Haiti. If you are trying to reach a loved one living or travelling in Haiti, please feel free to contact my Boston office at 617-428-2000 or my Brockton Office at 508-586-5555.

We have also received a briefing from the U.S. Coast Guard regarding their efforts to get humanitarian relief to the impacted area. We have been informed that they are actively involved in relief efforts and more help is on the way.”

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