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November 2006 |
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2006 has been eventful in Haiti. The February election brought hope as the popularly elected president and
legislature took power in May. Conditions improved and supported renewed short term trips into the summer and some thought of normalcy in Cite Soleil. However, this period of hope ran into the reality of the gangs, which sought to assert their power. Beginning in mid-July there was a renewal of violence. With the new government, the UN and international organizations working together, the Fall has brought again a reduction in violence. For the first time in years, the Haitian police again maintain a permanent presence in Cite Soleil, the World Bank is assisting in feeding the poor of the slums, and the Haitian government has made clear to the gangs that continued violence is not an option. |
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HOM activities are in a relatively normal Fall status. The schools are open, with 748 enrolled in the primary schools and another 145 enrolled in secondary schools on HOM scholarships. 9 students are enrolled in Haitian colleges or advanced technical courses. Weekly worship is active at all four churches – Cite Soleil, Blanchard, Ibo Beach, and Repatriote. The Blanchard clinic is scheduled to open for use in December 2006 and we expect to reopen the Cite Soleil clinic in January 2007.
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