Haiti has been in the spotlight as a country going through back-to-back crises month after month. Functioning during difficult times has been the new norm in Haiti. Every day is a challenge.

The news includes increased gang violence, political insecurity, kidnapping, President assassination, earthquake destruction and COVID-19. These hardships have made life exceedingly difficult in Haiti. Along with these issues there are the hardships hardly mentioned, because the country has been going through it for so long, such as illiteracy, unemployment, food shortages, teen pregnancy and violence against women and children.

These issues combined create an environment where daily survival is challenged, and hope becomes harder to hold on to.

Amid such struggle what is needed is a lifeline. GOALS Haiti is providing that lifeline through soccer and education. I have witnessed firsthand the power of what is possible.

The experience that the youth in our programs have helps them to deal with the reality of the country. Recently we surveyed youth in our program and here are several responses -

Cassandra, 19 CFC program for 8 years “Through GOALS health education program I learned how to protect myself and how to make healthy choices to not get pregnant prematurely.”

Maxi, 19 Bossan program for six years “GOALS showed me how to respect others especially girls, and to help those that are in need.”

Acheline, 18 Bossan program for 4 years “GOALS taught me to have respect for others no matter who they are, and I now know how to think and plan for my future.”

These are examples of the impact of skills and values that kids learn in the program. Sustainable development has a greater chance of being achieved when youth are engaged. Tomorrow, when these kids become mature adults, they will be able to make healthy choices and contribute to their community.

During these difficult times in Haiti, we are fortunate to be able to carry out all of our programs. Our coaches and staff are committed to providing a safe space for kids to learn, play and grow. It is the passion to make a difference that keeps us coming to work not fearing the difficult times as we know there is a way to a better future for Haiti.

Our commitment is real and together we will continue to be part of the solution going forward in Haiti.