During the afternoon of January 12, 2010, an earthquake, registering 7.0 on the Richter scale, rocked the Caribbean nation of Haiti, causing mass devastation. Haiti, which is the poorest nation in the Western Hemisphere and has a population of 9.6 million, is in dire need of funds to provide safe water, temporary shelter systems and essential medical supplies.

The NBA is joining forces with our partner UNICEF, who has been on the ground in Haiti since 1949, to bring attention to the crisis and much needed emergency assistance to the victims. UNICEF is ready to provide immediate support to the estimated three million victims of the unfolding humanitarian crisis. In coordination with other UN agencies present on the ground, UNICEF will provide supplies to allow access to adequate sanitation, safe water and basic health care.

Learn more about the situation and UNICEF's efforts to provide aid

Please join the NBA Family in support of those in need. Click the link below to learn more about how you can contribute to this critical issue:

(Photo credit: AP Photo/Jorge Cruz)