Haitian Community Development and the Quakers

Eloise Chevrier, AFSC, 7/98

When I visit program work, as I was privileged to do in Haiti last year, I am filled with the hope that comes from seeing the human spirit triumphing over obstacles like poverty. Bumping along the dirt roadway and over the stream where people were washing their clothes, Haitians in this remote area stared at the strange sight of "Blancs!" (as the children shouted when they saw white faces) until we waved - which brought forth wonderful, hope-igniting smiles.

There is the new Health Center and guess what the people chose to name it? "Sant sante lesrwa iwa," Creole for "Health Center of Hope in Irois!"

Dr. Caze, the young Haitian doctor at the Health.Center, is also a musician who writes the music he and his group sing. One evening they entertained us. Dr Caze had written a very special song he wanted us to hear....it was a thank you song to AFSC which likened it to a star shooting through the sky, bringing good fortune.

---

Return to our Page