Premier Ewart Brown met with 20 Haitians living in Bermuda on Monday night.

After the meeting the group of Haitians decided to create an event that would raise funds for their devastated country as well as educate this Island about Haiti's rich history.

Premier Brown said: "The meeting was emotionally charged. The reception allowed many Haitians to meet for the first time."

A spokesman for the Premier added: "The meeting also was an opportunity for the Premier to talk with the Haitians — face-to face — and express the support of the Government of Bermuda and the people of Bermuda.

"As Dr. Brown pointed out, Bermudians are known for their generosity.

"He added that, while Bermuda is a small country, he was sure that our assistance would be bigger than our size would predict."

Haiti was the first Caribbean nation to become independent, after rebelling against the French who had colonised the island.

Ministers David Burch, Zane DeSilva and Michael Scott also attended.