Orphanage in haiti offers hope amidst gang violence: bestselling author runs sanctuary
In the heart of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, a city gripped by gang violence and despair, a beacon of hope endures. Bestselling author Mitch Albom and his wife Janine have established Have Faith Haiti, a sanctuary for at-risk children, offering a stark contrast to the chaos outside its walls.
A haven amidst chaos
The compound, resembling a fortress with its towering walls and security measures, shields 56 children and over 50 staff members from the brutal realities of Haiti. Albom's initiative arose from a profound sense of responsibility after the devastating 2010 earthquake, prompting him to help repair a local orphanage. He took over the operation, driven by a simple yet powerful realization: "If my wife and I can do anything to change that, even if it's a drop in the bucket, that'll be our drop."
The security situation in Haiti is dire. With the Haitian government effectively collapsed since 2021 and gangs controlling up to 90% of the capital, the country faces a humanitarian crisis. The United Nations authorized an international peacekeeping force, but deployment has been slow, and U.S. financial support has been significantly reduced.
Albom's journey to Haiti is itself a testament to unwavering commitment. He travels to Cap-Haïtien, then relies on a helicopter operated by a private security firm to reach Port-au-Prince, a journey fraught with risk. Inside the orphanage, a rigorous safety protocol is ingrained in the children’s lives. Regular drills prepare them for emergencies, with designated bunkers stocked with supplies.
More than just security
Beyond the physical safety, Have Faith Haiti prioritizes education and spiritual development. Children, many of whom have resided at the 7-acre compound for years, receive instruction in both French and English. The absence of technology like cell phones, televisions, and computers fosters a unique environment where childhood unfolds in a more traditional way. Albom notes their attention spans are remarkably long.
The orphanage has seen remarkable academic success, with 16 students graduating from high school in the past eight years. All have earned scholarships to American colleges and universities, but their plans extend beyond seeking individual opportunity. The students have committed to returning to Haiti for two years of service before pursuing further studies in the U.S., aiming to contribute to the country's rebuilding.
Yonel, 17, who grew up in an orphanage himself after losing his parents in the 2010 earthquake, embodies this spirit of giving back. He emphasizes the importance of connection and support for the children. “They need that connection, you know,” he says. “So I put myself there for them.”
The road ahead remains challenging. Six students are set to graduate this spring, but securing visas for further education in the U.S. is uncertain. The future of Haiti itself hangs in the balance, with the country grappling with political instability and widespread violence. Yet, Albom remains steadfast in his belief in the potential of these children. “Every child has that potential inside, no matter what circumstance they come from,” he states. It’s a conviction that fuels their hope – and a powerful reminder that even in the darkest of times, compassion can ignite transformative change.
The students' determination to return to Haiti, not for personal gain but to serve their nation, underscores a profound truth: education can be a catalyst for rebuilding a nation’s future—and perhaps, its soul.