On January 12, 2010 much of the world watched the news in disbelief at the devastation caused by an earthquake which struck Haiti. Six months later, Haitian life is even more difficult than it was in the immediate aftermath.
Haiti Program Coordinator, Allie Weldon, recently met with the Maison des Anges (MDA), House of Angels, director, Gladys Maximilien and her husband Leslie. A formal meeting took place where agencies from France, Germany and Spain discussed the rebuilding efforts of MDA. The buildings at MDA were severely damaged and eventually collapsed. It was a miracle that the children and staff all survived without a scratch. It is anticipated to take at least another 10 months or so before the orphanage will be rebuilt. In the meantime the children are living in tents which have been set-up on concrete pads.
Children's Cribs in the Orphanage's Temporary Tents
MDA relies on their partner agencies for fundraising assistance. Several European agencies have raised more than 250,000 EURO (about $318,000 USD) for the new orphanage building. Now it is time to plan for the interior and the items needed to care for the children. The agencies present committed to specific projects until every need was matched with an agency. Carolina Adoption Services has committed to fundraising for the construction of 60 new cribs for babies and for the purchase of 120 mattresses.
Children in Haiti rest in cribs outside.
The cribs are actually double cribs; they are more like a toddler-sized bunk bed. The materials will be purchased in Haiti and local Haitians will complete the construction. This is a wonderful project that supports the children who call MDA home as well as the local economy. The cost to construct one double-crib is projected to be $215 plus the cost of mattresses. While this cost may seem high, Haiti is an island and all materials must be imported. Prices are also highly inflated, especially right now as so many work to rebuild the city. You can donate a double crib with mattresses that sleeps two babies for $400. As the donor of a double crib, your name will be inscribed on a plaque hung on the orphanage wall.
A child sleeps in the comfort of a crib.
CAS needs your help to fulfill our commitment to these children. If you can donate a crib or contribute to the Haiti Crib Project you may do so on-line or by sending a check. Please remember to designate on the memo line, “Haiti Crib Project”. For more information, please contact Allie Weldon. Thank you!