It is mid-year and we always take time to look at our progress so far, what has worked will and what can be improved. As we look at both quantitative statistics and qualitative material, we can see the impact of our work.
97% of program participants cited reduced stress from being in our program. At a moment when the country is facing extreme insecurity having a safe place for children to learn and play is of paramount importance.
When I am asked how our programs are going, I respond positively in that we are functioning daily, and we have been able to continue working while many other organizations in Haiti have had to halt operations.
But if we dig digger, the gang warfare that is terrorizing the capitol of Haiti has far reaching effects, and we are all affected.
Of the 56 students in our literacy program, we had 4 students drop out of the program. When we checked as to why that was, we learned that each of the families had moved out of the area. Although this community is roughly 90 minutes from the capitol the insecurity has made it nearly impossible for the fisherman and farmers in the community to sell their goods and make a living for their families.
This is acutely felt by the children.
Here is one of our kids sharing their story-
“I have 3 sisters; 2 brothers and I live with my father. I live in a family which does not have enough economic resources. The biggest issues I face is my family does not have necessary funds to help my basic needs. My father is sick, and he cannot work right now. That has a huge impact in my life because there are so many sacrifices we have to make.
For examples my siblings and I used to have money to pay for transportation for school. Now, we must walk to school and back and it takes us 3-4 hours of walking time every day we go to school.
The GOALS program does a lot of things in my life. It helps me to grow up and helps me to progress. Most importantly it helps me to know myself and my true capabilities.
While I’m in the GOALS program I can say the issues in my life improve. When I come to the program I can find a meal every day, that allows my brother and sister to have more food because I eat in the program. When I come to the program, I play a lot and then I feel less stress about things in my life in general.”
We will continue to show up daily and strive to make a difference as we work in partnership with our communities to increase the health and stability for families in rural Haiti.