Elder's Trip March 12-19th

Bonswa! 

Hello from Haiti! 

We apologize for the lack of blog updates--the days have been wonderfully long and productive--and periods for Wifi very brief. To catch you up we included a lengthy blog post. Feel free to read at your leisure. ;)

If you are just joining us, we are a team of 2 Nurses/3 Mental Health Workers/1 Physical Therapist/1 Spiritual Counselor and 1 Elder Liaison serving 34 Elders outside of Grace Village. Our goal of the trip is to assess the Elders from each of our various lenses. Then with that assessment we are putting what one might call a "care plan" in place that can help the Grace Village Clinic continue to serve them as well as future Healing Haiti trips. So with that said... 

Today was our second day serving the Elders. We broke up into 2 teams for the day and served a total of 7 elders. Here is a little bit of how it works to visit an Elder...

Our day starts early with a fresh meal prepared daily by local Haitian women. Quick last minute preparations are in order. After packing snacks for lunch, lathering on sunscreen, grabbing our gear, and saying a prayer we are ready to go. 

In order to get to see the Elders we must first take a 45 minute drive in the "Tap Tap," to the village where they live. For those unfamiliar with Haiti, the "Tap Tap" is basically a truck with a camper shell type structure in the bed of the truck. It has 2 long benches in the back and multiple loops hanging from the ceiling in which is you can attempt to balance. If you are really feeling it, you can try "Tap Tap Surfing," which means you stand up and with no hands attempt to balance as the Tap Tap goes bumping down the more-often-than-not, unpaved road. 

The drive brings perspective to the poverty and devastation to the country. The Haitians continually burn their trash and the smell of the fires takes some getting used to. By the end of the 45 minute drive your hair has collected so much dust from the ride that your hair feels like straw. The sites, smells, and sounds are new and overwhelming for those who have never experienced Haiti before. 

After the Tap Tap adventure it is time to begin! Today we saw 7 Elders (see some pictures below.) 

The needs varied from Elder to Elder. We found that the biggest need often stemmed from living conditions. The places that our Elders call home look like what an American might call a make shift shelter. They are small and made from a combination of cinderblock, tarp, plywood, and basically anything that might hold 4 walls and a roof together. Many of our Elders asked for help repairing their homes or helping them move. 

Our Elders lives are difficult and it is starkly different from the average aging American. They usually only eat the meal that Grace Village brings them 1x a day---like a Haitian "Meals on Wheels"---as they are typically physically unable to provide for themselves. HOWEVER, and this is a BIG however....These Elders have many things Americans do not. They have a reliance on God that is pure and beautiful. When asked if they feel safe or if they are sad about anything all of their responses looked something like, "With God I feel safe," "With God I would be nothing," "With God I have peace." And the craziest, goosebumpiest, (I know that isn't a word) part is that they say these things with true trust in their eyes and smile. They say that God is enough for them as they sit on the one and only chair they own, wearing well worn shoes. And they gladly pose and smile at our camera for one of the few pictures they will ever have taken of them. 

Since we have been here 95% of the Elders we met with said that their favorite Bible verse is Psalm 23! It's mentioned so often that our team is learning to say it in Creole. And despite being unable to read or write, some of these Elders have the whole thing memorized. (Please take a second and See Below For Psalm 23.) To put this in perspective... as they sit dizzy from thirst and hunger, one of the main and simplest requests they have is for new shoes, specifically fancy shoes for church, as to show respect to the Lord most high. They have nothing and yet they choose to praise the Lord with words, songs, and even shoes. 

I will leave you with these words and the pictures and verses that follow...the BIGGEST smiles and excitement we have been privileged to witness is the sheer joy of seeing a Children's Bible that is full of bright and colorful pictures of basic Bible stories. At one visit, one of our gentlemen quickly took the Bible and put it safely in his room. The saddest part of our day was telling him that we needed to keep it in order to share with the other Elders as we only have 1 translated Bible in Creole. For our team, it was the coolest thing to witness their faces light up and yet so sad that someone could find so much joy in a Bible and yet not be able to have one. Please be in prayer about this need for our 34 Elders. The Bibles are around $25.00 each and despite needing wound care, food, etc. the greatest need and want they have is for a picture Bible. We would love for each Elder to be able to have their own someday. Thank you for praying for us. Thank you for following our journey with us. And thank you for the grace you are having with us with our lack of updating. Enjoy the attached pictures and our Elder's favorite scripture. May it be written on your heart as it is theirs.

 The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.

2     He makes me lie down in green pastures,

he leads me beside quiet waters,

3     he refreshes my soul.

He guides me along the right paths

    for his name’s sake.

4 Even though I walk

    through the darkest valley,[a]

I will fear no evil,

    for you are with me;

your rod and your staff,

    they comfort me.

5 You prepare a table before me

    in the presence of my enemies.

You anoint my head with oil;

    my cup overflows.

6 Surely your goodness and love will follow me

    all the days of my life,

and I will dwell in the house of the Lord

    forever.

Cite Soleil

Started the day off by going to Fleri Farm and getting a tour of all the different plants and food that they grow: mangos, coconuts, papayas, limes, avocados, sugar cane, etc. One of the men cut us each open a coconut to try - definitely fresher than what we have in the U.S.

The rest of the day was spent "doing" water truck. A tank truck was filled with clean water, and we then distributed this water to three different locations in Cite Soleil. People were lined up behind the truck with their pails and containers to bring back to their home. Our team rotated dispensing the water, helping carry the containers to where they needed to go, and just playing with the children that flocked to our side. They were very eager to be held and loved having their picture taken.

The day concluded with the women at the guesthouse making us a traditional Haitian meal: Rice and beans, meatballs, chicken legs, fried plantains, and potato & carrot stew.

- Hannah & Bean

King's College - Day 5

We started today with a quick visit to one of the local markets in downtown Port-au-Prince. We enjoyed meeting the vendors and "discussing" prices of their handicraft. After finding a few souvenirs to remind us of our time in Haiti, we went to an orphanage that for babies through teenagers. A little girl who was missing part of her leg and hand decided to adopt me for the day. It was difficult to think of her life as she got older, knowing that she may or may not have access to a prosthetic limb. But I tried to stay in the moment and got to be her wheels for the time that we were there. She had fun ordering me around and peeking through the windows at some of the smaller children who were still in their room. Another team member who is a nurse worked with a child with cerebral palsy who had fallen from his chair the day before. Others had a chance to introduce the kids to the wonders of sidewalk chalk and held bubble wands for blowing approximately one million bubbles! A few of the teenage girls were creating a dance routine to a Justin Bieber song and were thrilled when one of our team members popped her head in and started to sing the song with them. Music and love really are universal languages!

We then drove to Papillon, an organization that was created to provide jobs to people so that they can provide for their families. They have a large cafe and employ over 200 people who make handicrafts. The even have on-site childcare for their employees, something that most U.S. entities lack. As a business professor, I am particularly interested in having my students see first-hand how job creation can help develop a sustainable economy, and Papillon is a terrific example of a sustainable enterprise that continues to employ more Haitians each year.

Finally, we traveled to a hospital for sick and dying babies. We were all a bit apprehensive, as it can be difficult to see anyone who is sick, let alone a baby. Half of our team fed some of the healthier babies their evening meal. While we fed them, other older children played hide and seek between our legs, enjoying hiding in the folds of our skirts. The other half of our team helped feed and change diapers of the sickest babies. Like other places we have seen, supplies that we take for granted, like wipes and diapers, are in limited supply. While some team members continued to care for the sicker children, others were able to take some of the healthier babies and children outside. We all enjoyed being on the large playground. My specialty was pushing the swing for two children at a time. Even the girls cried for me to push them "plus fort" - harder so they could grab the leaves on the tree. While we there, another team of volunteers arrived, and it was great to see so many people who had come simply to love and be with these kids. And in the process, we got some pretty amazing love and hugs in return. 

- Kimberly

Study in Contrasts

Day 2 in the field, and it could not have been a better experience. 

We started the day off with going to a home for sick adults run by nuns. Not ever have gone to serve in a medical setting, this was something that I was really looking forward to being able to do. Upon arriving there, we were led up bright blue stairwells to where the women's ward was. Our goal for the morning was to pamper the women, making them feel relaxed and loved, even in the midst of their sickness. We were able to serve in the Tuberculosis ward, as well as a couple others with sick patients. The women absolutely loved being pampered, and were loving the nail polishes that we brought along, all requesting bright beautiful colors for their mani/pedis. In addition, a member of our group is a nurse, and was given the chance to administer IV's to some of the more dehydrated patients. It was amazing to get to see how much of an impact we could make, just based on a few hours. Upon leaving, one of the Sisters mentioned exactly how much they appreciated our presence there, and how they hoped we would return in the future, as there is truly a need for volunteers in Haiti, to serve those who are sick. This made me realize how important it is what we are doing, and further, made me that much more passionate to come back in the future.

    For the second part of our day, we got the chance to go to La Loo orphanage and spent a few hours with the kids. Upon walking in, they gathered in the middle of the room and sang to us, welcoming us with beautiful song. The age groups varied, ranging from babies, all the way up to kids around the age of 15. Personally, I got the chance to connect with some of the pre-teen/teenage girls. After talking with them for a while, I learned that several of them wanted to be doctors someday. However  the chances of them becoming one are slim, due to lack of any financial aid from the government. This made me realize something very important. Even amongst poverty and the lack of being with their biological parents, these kids are passionate and smart. The drive is completely there, however, what is missing is opportunities for them to get a higher education upon leaving the orphanage. To those who read this, I challenge you to research ways to invest in these kids futures. Whether that be through spreading education about their situations, lending financial support, or even coming here to Haiti to witness the spark and drive in these kids eyes. These kids want to be loved. They have been given every reason in life to give up, however, possess this natural passion for life, and aim to strive ahead. Their personalities were truly beautiful, and I feel blessed to have been able to take part in this day. 

     

Kings College - Two Days of Haiti!

March 5, 2018 (Day 1)

Hey Everyone! What a day, it has been. I am so excited to see what's in store for the rest of this week. I flew in from Colorado last night and was able to stay with Lois' family (who is amazing I must add). This morning we traveled to the Minneapolis airport, and were able to meet Mubeenah, Carissa, and Hannah. We then flew to Atlanta and met up with Laura, Olivia, and Kim. From there we all made our way to Haiti.

When we walked out of the airport we were greeted by some of the employees from Healing Haiti. They drove us on the bus back to where we were staying. Instantly, we were greeted by three adorable puppies and a few older dogs. The setting is so pretty. We are on the top floor of the building, where you can see a hotel from a distance, pink flowers decorate the buildings, and local Haitian children are playing soccer. We scarfed down tacos for dinner and then had our devotional. It's been a really busy day full of traveling, but I can't wait to see what tomorrow holds!

xoxo- Annie


March 6, 2018 (Day 2)

Today was filled with happiness, inspiration, and awe. We were able to travel to Grace Village and receive a tour. It has been described as inspirational for how developed, and beautiful the village and the people in it were! The concept of giving the newest and greatest technology to the students instead of the hand-me-downs of others is a better way to see "charity." But it is not outside charity that Grace Village is looking for, but instead the opportunity to allow Haitians to flourish and help develop the country through investments in Haiti's economy. They go to local business to buy medicines, and other supplies, while also hiring Haitians to do the development work instead of outsourcing. The way to healthy, sustainable growth is through the development of the individual, which translates to the family, and finally the community. Their bakery follows the same mindset (and smells INCREDIBLE!) Plus on our tour of the bakery we had the best iced coffee I have ever tasted!

We also were given the opportunity to visit with 4 of the elders, deliver them a meal, and show them some love. I was overwhelmed with happiness during this time because of how welcoming and loving they were during this time of vulnerability. The elders faith was inspirational, which we saw through their demeanor and prayer requests. Their main requests revolved around growing in their own walk in faith, or for their families faith. They lit up as we washed and massaged their feet, legs, arms, and hands. It is beautiful to see how our bodies have such a reaction to a simple touch, and the deeper sense of love you feel. These women are stronger than anyone I have encountered before and have provided for me a lasting image of what it means to be rooted in God in all things.

It has been a humbling day for all of us here. It is great to see how community is so prevalent and powerful in Haiti. I am excited to see what tomorrow will be able to teach me!

- Laura

Alleluia Haiti Team - Day 7

Wow.
What a week we have had in Haiti.
We served.
We loved.
We grew closer to God.

Today we started this beautiful Sunday morning by praising the Lord at Grace Church. We worshiped in Creole with prayer and praise music. Then we headed up the coast to a Oceanside beach resort, Wahoo Bay. We spent the afternoon swimming, snorkeling, shopping, laying in the sun(getting sunburnt) and truly enjoying each others company. It is so wonderful to see God's beautiful creation at this beach and to see a different part of Haiti.

This week, our team h
as bonded together through our many amazing experiences. From playing with children in orphanages, delivering water to people that have no access to running water, learning a little sign language as we spend time with kids in the Haiti Deaf Academy, holding, feeding and changing diapers with sick children at the Home for Sick and Dying, supporting the local economy with our shopping, and the many laughs and tears and daily devotions we have had together.  It is hard to describe the impact this trip has had on us, but we are excited to see how the Lord will continue to use us.

A quote that has really touched our team, "True service is not something we do for the Lord, but something he does through us." - Blessings for the Evening devotion book
This describes our week perfectly, the Lord truly did amazing work through every single one of us.

See you again soon, beautiful Haiti,
Love,
Jessica & Shannon

Alleluia Haiti Team - Day Six - Last Day of Serving in Haiti

Today was Day 6 of our mission to serve in Haiti and also our second attempt at celebrating Alex's (my) birthday! After fighting off a sickness and being blessed with better health today, I was lucky enough to wake to an amazing team ready to celebrate - a team that had managed to decorate our guest house and tap tap for the occasion. God's plan couldn't have been more perfect this year for leading not just me, but this whole team to Haiti.

We started the morning traveling to Haiti Deaf Academy where we communicated in the universal language - LOVE. One person's inability to hear or speak in your language does not remove their ability to smile, laugh, or show compassion. From the moment we arrived, children of every age were all smiles. We played, had some arts and crafts time, colored, and even learned a little sign language as we spent the morning playing and having fun. We even had the opportunity to purchase some items that were created by the students themselves!

Next, we visited "Rosie's" - an ice cream & gift shop combo. So yes, we continued our trend of doing a little shopping each day supporting this growing Haitian economy, ice cream in hand. Every store we have visited has always had inspiring stories and abundant personalities behind them, and Rosie's was no exception. Every item was hand crafted by a Haitian where you could see the care and hard work that went into making it a beautiful piece of artwork. It was so easy to find joy buying some great pieces - knowing we were supporting more Haitian families.

From Rosie's we returned to Grace Village, where we spent another few hours the children - playing soccer, blowing bubbles, making some Jesus bracelets, and singing a few favorite songs (of theirs AND ours).  Our team likes to hope that playing with the children there brings as much joy to the them as it does to us. Grace Village has become an incredibly special place in all of our hearts as we learn about and witness the impact it is having on the community. We know that as Grace builds up the children, they build up Haiti's future.  We are so thankful to Healing Haiti and what they are doing here.

We finished off the night at Fleri Restaurant/Bakery enjoying some team fellowship and pizza, continuing to hear how the Bakery started, how it is truly flourishing - and it's exciting to know they hope to double their Haitian workforce from 25 to 50 by the end of the year.  Truly another great example of job creation.  The pizza was fantastic, and our Leaders (Carol, Sara & Jessica) were amazing surprising me with a Haitian made birthday cake.  Was a great way to end the day.


HIS HANDS. HIS FEET. HIS WORK. HIS LOVE.

Alex (& Kristi)


Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.  Romans 12:10