Heading into this trip I was most excited about visiting the programs, my American comrades that I had already come to know, and witnessing the beauty and hardships of Haiti. What I wasn’t prepared for was how deeply I would connect with, and later become homesick for, my incredible Haitian teammates. While I know it is a tiny drop in the bucket and nothing like engaging in person, I hope to share more about these amazing friends who have a forever spot in my heart.

One of the most significant problems for many Haitians is the lack of financial savings to cover large expenses when they arise. Many families are just one unplanned financial disaster away from crumbling – which often results in broken relationships. Though lack of employment is certainly a problem, even many Haitians who have jobs don’t have any financial safety net. After all, most wages here barely cover a person’s basic needs.

Most incarcerated Haitians have not been convicted of a crime, but are imprisoned during lengthy pretrial detention, frequently for many years. Due to severe overcrowding and malnutrition-related illnesses and other preventable diseases, many Haitians die in prison while waiting to see a judge.

Each week, Heartline’s outreach team has the great honor of visiting a local orphanage where children with disabilities live. They worship, pray, and share bread baked at Heartline’s Beltis Bakery with the children and staff. In February, the Men’s Ministry group and students from the Women’s Education Center cosmetology class joined together to shower the children with extra love and tender care. They volunteered to wash the children, cut and braid their hair, and provide manicures and pedicures. As the day’s activities got underway, the orphanage overflowed with laughter and excitement. The children enthusiastically sang, worshipped, and prayed.