Join ACT in Haiti this July!
Trip Basics:
Cost: $2,300
Dates: July 12 – July 19, 2014
Location: orphanages in Port-au-Prince, Haiti and surrounding areas
Country Specific Information
The history of Haiti reaches back to the time of Columbus and the expeditions he led in search of the “New World”. The original inhabitants were the Tainos, and this island was first brought to European attention when Columbus inadvertently landed on it.
Haiti is a mountainous country that occupies the western third of the island known as Hispaniola. The capital city is Port-au-Prince, which lies near the center of the country. Although once covered with lush forests, deforestation due to charcoal production has caused that figure to be reduced to 4%. In effect, this has led to erosion over much of the land. Haiti is considered the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere with 80% of the population living in poverty.
Why are we going?
“I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.” John 14:18
Quite simply because as Christians, we are called to care for orphans. We are all in a position to do something. We can start by ACTING with love and compassion, and if possible, we can GO.
Due to poverty, sickness, and natural disasters, the need is great. These factors have had a huge impact on the physical and emotional health of countless children. However, they are not forgotten.
What will we be doing?
As an America World mission team, we are going to spend a large chunk of our time providing one-on-one interaction, stimulation, and therapeutic activities for over 30 children with a variety of special needs that are currently residing in an orphanage in Port-au-Prince. We will support the current staff in caring for the needs of the children, help to train and educate the staff, and LOVE on these children. In addition, we are hoping to take supplies that will provide the children with continued stimulation and activity once we return home.
Our team will also spend a couple days completing a project that will alleviate a current physical or environmental need at one of the orphanages that AW currently works with in Haiti. We will determine the exact itinerary as our team takes shape so that we may take into consideration the unique talents and skills that our team members have to bring to this trip. More details soon!
Cultural Views on Disabilities
Disabilities are not commonly discussed, in many countries and cultures around the world, as they are often misunderstood. By many, they are not seen as a medical issue, but believed to be a punishment. Therapy and rehabilitation are not readily available or typically sought out as parents are often ashamed. However, we have a chance to show God's love to these children and do just what He has commanded us to do. We get the opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus and love the least of these in a practical, tangible way.
Am I qualified to go?
YES. Really, anyone and everyone who has a love of children and desire to serve is qualified! You never know what unique qualities and talents you might bring to these children and our mission!
Next Steps:
Spend some time in prayer about this trip, and if you feel led to join us, simply complete the online application and submit the $175 application fee. However, if you have questions in the meantime, email us! We'd love to hear from you!
“And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love.” 2 John 1:6