Haiti H2O has always valued relationships with our Haitian partners. These friendships have grown over the more than 15 years that we have been working in rural Haiti. But, between the pandemic and turmoil in Haiti, it has been difficult to travel there over the past three years.

That’s why I am so grateful for our staff in Haiti. Jeanne and Jules, are our “boots on the ground” at a time when it has been hard for us to be there in person. Jules helps to oversee the project plans and budgeting. Jeanne stays connected with the pastors and takes care of most of the hands-on work since she is nearby in Les Cayes.

Both participate in quarterly visits to each community, where they receive project updates and continue to encourage and connect with community leaders on Haiti H2O’s behalf. Here are some photos and updates from their most recent visit in March:

Rebuilding Homes

Many homes in Meloniere and Plain Matin were destroyed in the earthquake last August. People are now living in makeshift houses and tents. Construction materials have been hard to acquire and are very costly, especially in these very remote locations. To make matters worse, economic turmoil has caused serious price inflation in Haiti. Jules recommended waiting a few months to ride out the extreme price inflation.

To bridge the gap between the need for homes and the availability of supplies, the community of Meloniere asked for help to build a few homes “Haitian style.” This involved using locally available wood and rocks to build the foundation and walls, then cement was used to provide a stronger “stucco.” Tin was purchased for the roof.

The laborers have almost completed two of these homes. You can get a glimpse of one of these homes in this video sent by Jeanne last week. The homeowner is quite pleased, and we are very glad that he has a safe place to live. He sends his greetings and thanks to you for helping him in this meaningful way.

In the community of St. Martin, another home is near completion. Madame Sypre is thrilled to have help rebuilding her home which was destroyed in the previous hurricane. All of our home projects include participation from the owner, often by providing the land for the house and/or some help with the labor. Bringing their own assets affirms the dignity of the homeowner.

Bakers in Bassin Caiman

Meet Lourdes, the mother-in-law of our longtime friend Toto. She works in the bread oven in Bassin Caiman. In this video, she shares some of the current struggles with price inflation and being able to sell the bread she makes with the high cost of flour.

Medical Clinic in Plain Matin

Jeanne coordinated another mobile medical clinic in the community of Plain Matin with Dr. Sony and three Haitian nurses. They treated 86 patients, including several children and two pregnant women. The team cared for people with a variety of illnesses, including bronchitis, UTI, scabies, and high blood pressure. One of the benefits of doing this clinic every three months is that patients with high blood pressure can be assessed and prescribed a three-month supply of medication.

Dr. Sony shared this message: “I congratulate you and the local Haiti H2O team for your involvement in the health field of the Haitian population. I encourage you to continue to help my people who are so vulnerable. May God bless you and be with you!”

This is a step toward more consistent healthcare in Plain Matin and Bassin Caiman. The next clinic will take place in Bassin Caiman in April. Thank you to Fox Chapel Presbyterian Church and Friendship Community Church and other donors for making these clinics possible!

Haitian Staff Bridge the Distance

Biking for a Purpose

Meet Enock Sanon