News Update From Our Executive Director

3/14/20

Dear Friends,

I am writing to update you on two significant changes that are affecting the ability of teams to travel to Haiti and serve with our ministry. On March 5th, the US State Department raised the Travel Advisory for Haiti to Level 4: Do not travel. This is due to the ongoing reports of crime, civil unrest, and kidnappings. The second issue is the concern about COVID-19 and its effect on health and travel throughout the world. As of this writing, there are no reported cases of COVID-19 in Haiti and our Haitian medical staff are educating themselves on coronavirus and are teaching basic handwashing and hygiene.

Because of these two factors a few teams have found it necessary to cancel their planned trips to Haiti. We are fortunate that we have been able to host teams and HOM leaders in Haiti since February 1st. They have had meaningful experiences. Our campuses are doing well. As one person said, “Rest assured, despite the craziness of the news here, things in Haiti just bump along like nothing is wrong.” To be sure, the people of Haiti are resilient.

The good news is that because we operate with an all Haitian staff, our churches, schools, and medical and dental clinic still operate. Even though we greatly miss the support, partnership, and work contributions of the US teams when they are unable to travel, our ministry continues to serve in Haiti. Here are a few highlights:

  • Our three primary schools and our Barye Fe secondary school have been in session since December 2. Attendance is strong and our students are thriving.
  • Of our 1,711 students in our four schools, 1,378 (80.5%) are sponsored by generous and caring supporters in the US. Of course, there is still the opportunity to sponsor the other 333 students.
  • Construction on the last classroom building at the Repatriote primary school – pictured below – is going well. The classroom building is on schedule to open in September.

In closing, I want to say thank you for your wonderful support of the many aspects of our ministry. Because of you, we are able to continue in our vibrant ministry even in the face of difficulties. With so much going on I ask for you to continue to pray for the health and safety of the people of Haiti and for hope for the future. Please know of our prayers for all those affected by the coronavirus and for you as we all work for a brighter future.

Grace and Peace,

Gary W. Fulton
Executive Director

PS: The resources required to do our work in Haiti are quite substantial. Your donation now in any amount will make a very real difference in the lives of our Haitian brothers and sisters. Thank you.