International Rescue Committee UK

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There's no telling how many children became orphaned or separated by Haiti's earthquake on 12 January, but there are no doubt many thousands. Some have been taken in by caring neighbours or strangers in homes still standing or in the hundreds of makeshift settlements scattered across Port-au-Prince and other devastated cities. Others have been placed in orphanages across the country. Every day, a small army of determined caseworkers hits the rubble-strewn streets to talk to children who have lost their families and to search for parents looking for missing children. This detective work is difficult and exhausting. But on those days that they connect the dots and bring families together again, there is nothing more precious.

*The names of separated children have been changed for their protection.

Story by Melissa Winkler