In the heart of Port-au-Prince, Haiti’s capital marked by gang violence and despair, a beacon of hope shines through Mitch Albom’s orphanage, Have Faith Haiti. With towering walls, barbed wire, and guarded entry, the orphanage offers a sanctuary to 56 children and employs over 50 dedicated staff members.
Background of Have Faith Haiti
Mitch Albom, a bestselling author, began his journey in Haiti after the catastrophic earthquake in 2010 that claimed roughly 200,000 lives and left millions homeless. During this time, he volunteered to help an elderly pastor manage a Christian orphanage. With his experience, he took on the responsibility of running the orphanage, which has now become a refuge for vulnerable children.
Security Concerns
The dire security situation in Haiti forces Albom to travel cautiously. International flights are restricted in Port-au-Prince, so he takes monthly flights to Cap-Haïtien and then uses a helicopter to reach the orphanage. Armed guards accompany him in bulletproof vehicles to ensure safety.
Gang Violence and Government Collapse
The assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021 led to the near-complete collapse of Haiti’s government. Currently, gangs control approximately 90% of the area, displacing over a million people, according to United Nations estimates. Yonel, the Haitian director of Have Faith Haiti, underscores the importance of preparedness, conducting regular emergency drills for the children.
Life Inside Have Faith Haiti
Despite the imminent threats outside, Have Faith Haiti fosters an environment of love, faith, and education. Most children have not ventured beyond the orphanage compound in over four years. They engage in play, chores, worship, and schooling, with lessons offered in both French and English.
- 56 children reside at Have Faith Haiti.
- Over 50 staff members provide care and education.
- Classes focus on preparing children for higher education.
Not all children are orphans; many are placed here by parents unable to care for them. Albom’s approach focuses on accepting children in dire situations, fostering connections to help reduce feelings of abandonment.
Education and Future Aspirations
The orphanage prioritizes education, offering small class sizes and tailored lesson plans. Although there are no distractions like cellphones or televisions, children experience a full childhood. Sixteen students have graduated from high school and received scholarships to American colleges, with a commitment to return to Haiti and contribute to their communities.
- 16 students have graduated high school in the past 8 years.
- All graduates received scholarships but plan to return to Haiti.
Students express determination to return to Haiti and improve their homeland. They understand the importance of education for future leadership and development amidst the country’s ongoing challenges, with no elected government since 2021.
Current Challenges and Hope for the Future
In September, the United Nations, with U.S. support, authorized international troop deployment to assist Haitian police. However, fewer than 1,000 troops have been sent, and U.S. financial assistance has drastically decreased by over 50%. The uncertainty surrounding education and scholarship opportunities for older students remains a pressing concern.
Despite these challenges, Albom remains hopeful, stating, “Every child has potential, regardless of their circumstances.” He believes that providing guidance and a nurturing environment allows children to aspire for a better future. The mission of Have Faith Haiti exemplifies resilience and a commitment to nurturing the next generation.
