Since we arrived into Haiti, we've heard story after story of destruction, death and discouragement. I expected to see a people of greed, hatred and selfishness. My experience here in Haiti has exposed so much more to the people of Haiti. We stayed with a Haitian couple in Port-au-Prince when we first arrived. they were so willing to help their fellow Haitians out, they purchaseed water trucks themselves and distrubuted water to the local residents, approximately 7000 gallons of water were given out.We met another Haitian named Mervolus. He is based out of California and spent some of his life in Haiti as a student and teacher. He came back to help along the street he grew up. His old school, house and church are destoryed, but the warmth of his heart and the support of his church encouraged him to fed local orphans. Together we fed 100 people. The number of orphans have tripled since the earthquake. I have not seen any kids sleeping on the streets, but I have met several families who have taken in orphans in their already cramped sheet tent.
We have heard there is not much aid in Carrefour, Haiti. Currently that's where we're based. We are trying to partner with some local aid organizations and it looks favorable. ADRA and US AID have been seen handing out rice and water to tent cities. We are discovering that the most basic needs are still the most needed, including food, water and shelter.
One Pastor said this today, "The number one need for these people are tents. The tent is the most usable item right now from shelter, security, shade and privacy. These people have some place to call home. The tent can go with them, when they decide to move back to what use to be home."
Check out my friend, Carlos Jink's blog at www.web.mac.com/carlosjinks/Haiti/welcome.html
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Hello Nate,
ReplyDeleteI hope you remember me ... I am a close friend of April. She told me you were heading to Haiti and that you'd be writing about your experiences while there. I can't tell you how uplifting, encouraging, and heartfelt your words are. I work in the media, and it's disheartening to hear all the trials and tribulations day in and day out … we don’t hear about the work that is being done there. We simply hear of the constant struggles. The positive words are few and far between. However, I’ve been reading your blog and I’m so amazed at what God is doing there … and how He is using you and your co-worker. Your words and photographs are inspiring … and I’m excited to see what is going to happen in the days to come for you. Thank you for sharing your stories. You are in my thoughts and prayers daily.
God bless,
Emily
Wow! Emily thanks for your encouraging words. It encourages me to continue to look at Haiti through the lens of support that has been given. Thanks for taking the time and following the plight of the Haitian people with us. We'll continue to blog. Currently we're working with a local organization called ASCASH, they hope to help 450 families and 200 orphans. We interviewed and filmed several members this morning. We hope to upload the videos soon.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the follow.
Nate
Amazing news Nate! I imagine your work there is inspiring and bringing hope to MANY more than what you know at this moment! God Bless on your continued journey. Looking forward to reading more about your venture.
ReplyDeleteTake care,
Emily