Haiti

Haiti has many things to be proud of. In the Haitian Revolution (1791-1804) slaves and free people of colour succeeded in abolishing slavery and defeating Napoleon Bonaparte's army. On 1 January 1804, the sovereign nation of Haiti was established – the first independent nation of Latin America and the Caribbean, the second republic in the Americas, the only nation in the western hemisphere to have defeated three European superpowers (Britain, France and Spain), and the only nation in the world established as a result of a successful slave revolt.

Today, however, Haiti is the poorest country in the West and for decades has been repeatedly blasted by natural disasters. Because of these challenges, development has been slow and difficult. In 2008, FH partnered with the rural community of Cachiman, and in 2014, Metagouasse joined the journey.

A special focus on improving agricultural techniques, upgrading educational facilities, and equipping supportive health groups is significantly improving the quality of life in these communities. With FH's encouragement, community members are tapping into their incredible potential and shifting their culture from one of fatigue and defeatism, to one of hope. FH has helped to create gardens and a nursery where the community can work together to grow their own produce such as cassava, bananas, mangoes, avocados, lemons, and cocoa. Local farmers are now training each other on these successful techniques. FH also facilitates medical initiatives in Cachiman, creating awareness around HIV/AIDS and training Leader Mothers in prenatal care and proper sanitation, who then train others. There is a mobile clinic that visits, educates, and follows-up with families in the area. Several volunteers have been trained to provide basic healthcare including vaccinations.

Cachiman is projected to graduate in December 2018, and Metagouasse in 2024.

WHAT'S HAPPENING IN HAITI