We have been involved for some time now with various projects for the earthquake victims in Haiti, so this year we have decided to continue this connection in the spirit of Christmas. In particular because Haiti also suffered from the after effects of "Hurricane Sandy" on top of the still serious consequences of the earthquake. We think that we will also be acting for their benefit if, instead of sending Christmas presents to the people of Haiti, we support the "Reconstruction of the Children's Village Ça-Ira in Léogâne" project with a donation, in the hope that this will help fulfill more lives there.

A New Place for Children to Call Home

As the earthquake raged during January 2010 in Haiti, the whole world was watching this place of destruction. Today, only few people or aid organizations appear to be interested in which steps the impoverished country would take to rebuild.

The children and youths at the Ça-Ira Children's Home in Léogâne lost the roofs above their heads because of the earthquake. Five of them died beneath the rubble. GAiN is now building a new home for the survivors. The children's home provides refuge for children and youths who have either lost their parents or whose parents are unable to provide a minimum level of sustenance for their children. Such children have no choice but to live on the streets and somehow try to make ends meet there. They usually end up involved in criminality and prostitution, and later have hardly any chance of finding a way out. Those who find a place at the children's home are given food and clothing and receive schooling.

Reconstruction

Since the beginning of 2011 work has been progressing rapidly on the construction of dwellings for the children on the site of the children's home in Léogâne. The two residential buildings will offer space for at least 150 children. Later, it is also intended to provide a school for the children in the vicinity. Currently, lessons are held in wooden shelters. Nine classes are being taught at the site. At the same time, just a few meters away, people are hammering, drilling, sawing and working on joinery. Many international teams of volunteers are helping with digging, removing rubble, concreting and bricklaying. Soon, the children will be able to move into their new classrooms.