Sometime in September, I will be traveling to Haiti for long term mission work. The exact date has not yet been decided, but I am DEFINITELY going to Haiti! Right now, the general plan is to leave in September and come home in December with a possibility of returning.
I have been in contact with Dorothy Pearce, a missionary there. She runs the "Faith Hope Love Infant Rescue" in Port-au-Prince. I met her two years ago when my church group went to Haiti, and I have wanted to go back ever since. As quoted from Dorothy's blog, "Faith Hope Love Infant Rescue is a Christian organization founded in 2005 in Port au Prince, Haiti to take in sick and malnourished infants from poor families who have no other hope. Whenever possible, we return children to their families when their health has been restored." Dorothy usually has about 20 or more children under her care at any given time. Many of these children suffer from things like HIV, tuberculosis, Hydrocephalus, clubbed feet, etc.
In addition to helping to care for and love the children, I will be responsible for teaching them. I am VERY excited and nervous. Dorothy has suggested that I brush up on special education for young delayed learners and teaching ESL (English as a Second Language). She mentioned that she has some materials, but no specific curriculum. So in addition to trying to learn Creole, that is what I will be working on this summer before I go!!
In order to stay in her home, I will need to donate at least $250 per month to Christian Light Foundation. In addition, I will need spending money for any other needs while I am there. Dorothy and I have not had a chance to talk specifics yet about what I should try to bring along. Right now, I know that I will need a laptop computer to stay in contact with all of you at home, teaching materials/curriculum ideas, and money. When I know more about what is specifically needed, I will be sure to post again. Thank you all for your prayers and support!!
