Returning From a Three-Week Trip

I just returned from a three-week trip to Haiti.  Joining me during part of that time was Susan Hevalow, John Howard, and Kyle Butler.  While there, we followed-up on the progress of all of our Love Haiti students, including  one-on-one sessions with each student, and an end-of-the semester celebration with the students and their families. We paid second-semester tuitions at four different schools, hired tutors for students in need, and sought medical care for a couple of students who needed it.  In addition, we researched and toured a public school in Port au Prince (there are not many, and we learned that entrance is extremely competitive); we toured a four-year nursing university in Leogane, and an English School in Port au Prince for future reference.  
We stayed at Notre Maison Children's Home in Port au Prince where Love Haiti sponsors a tutor for the children who live there.  We were able to observe his work, and interact with the children, learning more about their needs.
We also visited a Methodist Church in Port au Prince.  They have 4,000 members.  We were able to meet with the pastors, and they were kind enough to allow us to use a classroom to perform eye exams for the elderly.  Before we left for Haiti, Restoring Vision donated 300 pairs of reading glasses with instructions on how to perform eye exams for presbyopia.  Some of our Love Haiti students helped us perform the exams.  It was an opportunity for them to help others.    
This was a productive trip in so many ways.  Overall, the students are doing well.  We will be posting more details about our trip during the next few weeks, highlighting stories about specific students.  If you have any questions, please ask.

Update on Cliff

Yesterday we drove to Carrefour to visit Cliff and pay his next semester tuition. The last time we were in Haiti, Cliff was hit by a motorcycle. Although he still has some pain, he seems to be doing better.  Carrefour is a heavily populated city near Port au Prince, near in miles, but far in driving because of road conditions and traffic.  Once in Carrefour, the roads are narrow and rocky, and accidents are common.  Recently, Cliff's brother was hit by a car, resulting in a broken leg. It's such a hard life for these families. 

The good news is - Cliff is doing well in school.

Upcoming Mission Trip ~ January 2014

In January, 2014, a group is traveling to Haiti to pay school tuition for the second semester.  There are no "middle agents" in the Love Haiti project.  Volunteers pay their own way, and make tuition payments directly to the schools.  While there, the volunteers will meet with the students and their families, teachers, and principals.  If a child is needing some assistance in school, Love Haiti will attempt to provide that for them.  The students are required to pass their subjects.  They understand the consequences if they do not (they will not be sponsored).  Haitians value an education.  It is a precious commodity to them and their families.   

Prayers for Debbie, John, Sue  and Kyle who will be venturing to Haiti soon!