When major world events occur, millions of people turn to the news to stay abreast of the situation.  While the internet has been an instrumental tool in delivering content, traditional search has struggled with delivering fresh breaking news as it emerges.  It is when these unforeseen situations occur,  the importance of the realtime web is demonstrated.  Like a flood, people pour in from across the globe to get breaking updates on a current story.  Whether tracking a missing boy across the Colorado skyline or updated releases on a celebrity death, the masses want to be informed as it happens without delay.

The latest news event to reach and affect millions is that of the catastrophic 7.0 earthquake in Haiti.  Millions of individuals have had their world completely devastated and upturned, while thousands of others have lost their lives, or the lives of their loved ones.  While realtime updates continue to pour into our search with the aftermath including shocking statistics of individuals affected and pictures of rubble and debris, we’re also seeing more and more websites dedicated to Haiti relief efforts emerging.  While many of us Americans watch in sadness from our TV sets and computers, the realtime web is now providing us ways to show our support and rally for those people in need–not several days after an event like this has occured, but almost immediately following.

We spent some time looking at ways you can aid the relief efforts.  The sites are as follows:

• According to the RedCross‘ Twitter account, you can text HAITI to 90999 to donate $10.00 to aiding their efforts, or go through their International Response Fund.
• www.whitehouse.gov/ is currently accepting donations, as President Obama has promised his support.
• UNICEF has a secure online form taking donations for specifically helping the children affected by the quake.
• Doctors Without Borders
• Baptist Haiti Mission

There are several other places where you can make pledges and donations to help this horrendous situation.  While we cannot do anything to change what mother nature has brought, we can stay informed and do our part to lend a hand to those in need.