Introduction | Geography | History | Economy | People

Only a 90-minute plane ride from Miami, Haiti occupies one third of the Caribbean island of Hispaniola, which it shares with the Dominican Republic.

About the same square mileage as the state of Delaware, Haiti has a population of 8-9 million people, over 80% of which live below the poverty level. Years of civil strife and widespread deforestation has left the nation vulnerable to not only infrastructural instability, but also literal instability, as hurricanes frequently ravage the nation's countryside, leaving cities in shambles.

A lack of economic opportunity has increased Haiti's poverty in recent decades and therefore increased the numbers of Haitians living without food, shelter, clothing, clean water and medical care. The closest functional medical facility to Ouanaminthe (the town where Hope for Haiti is located) is about 3 hours away. Our children can be transported there in moments of need. The other citizens of Ouanaminthe do not have this option. Child slavery is common, as 20% of the nation's population is under the age of 15. These and other social ills act as a reminder of the old Haitian proverb: Behind the mountains, there are more mountains.

Despite it's poverty, though, Haiti is a vibrant country of colorful art, fantastic music, cloud forests and an intensely spiritual people whose humor and passion are contagious. We see the face of Jesus in the people of Haiti, and know that His heart is to see them thrive in His love. Our prayer is that our children, through the love and instruction they receive at Danita's Children, Hope for Haiti Children's Center, will have the ability and gifting to bring the light of Jesus to their country that is sometimes very dark.

We believe there is hope for Haiti, and that it lives in the hands and eyes of our children and the supporters who make our work possible. Together we can make a difference. To find out how you can help, click here.