Yesterday Hurricane Tomas skirted right past Haiti on the west coast. Thankfully they were spared a direct hit but still received high winds and lots of rain. It could have been much worse. What a blessing for the millions still living in tents! I can't imagine what would happen if 80mph winds ripped through one of those tent camps. I have yet to hear how Chambrun fared in the storm. I pray all is well.
The problems in Haiti are big... no, monumental. Unemployment rate over 80%. January Earthquake killed over 300,000 and destroyed most infrastructure in the capital city. Cholera outbreak has killed over 300 and threatens to worsen with new flooding after hurricane. 60% of the population lives on less than $1 a day. Less than 20% can read and write. 50% of children under 5 are severely malnourished. Corrupt leadership has ruled for decades. And the list goes on and on.
It is a daunting country. People so beautiful and full of joy and hope, yet so unbelievably poor. Words can't do Haiti justice. Pictures can't do it justice. The only way to come close to understanding her is to go there. The problems are nearly endless and will not be fixed overnight. It will take decades to get Haiti moving in the right direction. But like most problems this large, you have to start somewhere. Nehemiah Vision Ministries is slowly and steadily building a foundation to build up the people of Haiti. With a multi faceted approach including schooling, healthcare, orphan care, and feeding, NVM has started the long process of heading Haiti in a positive direction. Visit their website and learn more. Sign up for a week- long short term trip. Come visit us over the next year. You could be a vital part in the rebuilding of this country and its people.
No comments:
Post a Comment