(MissionNewswire) — A year after the devastating earthquake in Haiti, the Chronicle of Philanthropy has released the results of a survey of 60 major relief organizations.

According to the results released Jan. 6, 2011, experts in disaster recovery say the rate of spending in Haiti has been appropriate while also acknowledging that there is frustration at the rate of rebuilding.

The Chronicle article published results that “Americans gave more than $1.4 billion to aid survivors and help the impoverished country rebuild, according to a survey of 60 major relief organizations. Roughly 38 percent of that sum has been spent to provide recovery and rebuilding aid.”

Organizations like Salesian Missions, which has operated programs in Haiti since 1935, understand the immense challenges in Haiti.

“We have to keep in mind that many of the challenges that we are facing now were in existence even before the earthquake a year ago,” says Father Mark Hyde, director of Salesian Missions. “The earthquake caused devastation and loss, and increased the needs of an already poor and fragile country.”

It also shed light on Haiti more than ever before. Work by aid groups and NGOs that work to alleviate poverty conditions were in Haiti long before the earthquake and will continue to work in Haiti as long as there is need.

“Now that we have the world’s attention,” Fr. Hyde adds. “It is our job to tell the story, raise funds to provide essential goods and services, and give hope and opportunity to the youth.”

He notes that Salesian Missions wishes to thank the generosity of its donors who have made a great impact in the past year. Through support of donors—youth are continuing their studies, children are being fed and rebuilding is taking place.

“We are working closely with our colleagues in Haiti who were part of the community before the tragic earthquake,” says Fr. Hyde. “With their guidance, we are able to direct support to areas of greatest need, and we will continue to do so as long as the need is there.”

To date, approximately $2.5 million in funds have been spent by Salesian Missions on relief efforts for the Haitian people, along with additional in-kind donations. More than 23,000 students and 1,200 teachers have returned to classes at 10 Salesian Missions educational works.

Today the efforts are focused on rebuilding the country with the promise of its youth. While some humanitarian organizations and many people have left the country, the Salesians will continue with their work for the people of Haiti as they have since 1935. They are an integral part of the fragile nation’s infrastructure.

“We are proud of what we have accomplished but know that there is still so much to do,” says Fr. Hyde. “As part of the NGO community, we are constantly looking for ways to improve, develop new solutions and collaborate with key partners to produce the most results for the people of Haiti.”