Navigating Change Amidst Haiti’s Challenges

Through this very long season of decline in Haiti, we have been in a constant state of evaluation, adaptation, and re-evaluation. We now say the only constant is change! We have completely shifted our operations, our leadership, and our US staff presence in Haiti, but, only recently, were we forced to take a hard look at the proximity of our Children’s Home to the rapidly growing gang presence in the west. It was time to develop a plan to guarantee the safety and well-being of the children we serve. 

Assessing the Threat

In short, the Kenyan forces landing in Port au Prince created a relocation and dispersement of gang members and violent activity to the more rural areas of Haiti. We were closely watching this and all the “what if” scenarios had been considered.

✔️ The gang activity is less than 15 miles away. 
✔️ There is only one town standing between the gang-filled streets and our location.
✔️ There is movement toward our Children’s Home.
✔️ The access roads would be cut off limiting our evacuation options. 

Taking Preventative Action

As difficult as it was, we decided to temporarily relocate several of our children as a preventative measure. With the ability to comfortably house them at our other location and the delay in the academic calendar in Haiti, the children packed up with their caregivers and made the journey over the mountain. We will reevaluate the circumstances at the start of the school year.

Finding Safety and Gratitude

Until then, our children are enjoying an extended “summer camp”, safe from the growing chaos in Haiti and experiencing the provision and protection of our loving Father. For that, we are forever grateful.