Disease prevention through health education in Destra

Due to the presence of Coronavirus in Haiti as of March 28th our regular daily programs have been suspended to protect our staff, program participants and community members. We have pivoted our resources to increased health education and the distribution of precautionary materials such as hand wash kits, soap and face masks. Using social distancing we are continuing our nutrition program that provides a daily meal for up to 400 kids. For many it is the only meal of their day. We have increased our proper hygiene education and community information sessions.

Our work focuses on rural areas where no other non-profit, private, or government services are available. The needs in these areas are severe. Internal assessments show that 80% of our players’ parents are unemployed. Nearly a third of GOALS youth cannot afford to attend school and 13% still live in post-natural disaster transitional structures. Violence is an ever-present risk and gender bias and inequality is high. Malnutrition, malaria, dengue, dysentery and cholera are an ongoing risk of daily life. In terms of health, education, and opportunities, Haiti is one of the most difficult places in the world to grow up.

We remain committed to our communities and know that this crisis will be a long hard road ahead. Our program participants are missing their time on the field where they get to play, learn and grow. Their safety is our main concern and together we will weather this storm.