Update from Haiti: October 14, 2019

Dear Friends of Pure Water for the World and Haiti,

In a continued effort to realize much-needed change, today marks the beginning of the fifth consecutive week of Haitians protesting in the streets of Port-au-Prince (the capital city) and other cities across Haiti. For over a month, more than 2 million children have been unable to attend school. Businesses have been closed. With the increasing challenges of food, water, and medicine distribution, combined with severe fuel shortages, the country is on the brink of a humanitarian crisis.

The situation has made it difficult for the PWW team to accomplish the critical work that needs to be done. Day after day, PWW’s Haiti team members remain optimistic that they will be able to continue work, but they are at the mercy of this volatile situation. Their safety is our number one concern.

PWW Haiti Country Director, David Trofort, in front of PWW new offices in Puitblain, Haiti.

During this time, the team has been able to relocate the PWW office (see photo), a cost-cutting and safety measure that was initiated before the strikes began. The water quality testing lab has continued to provide services to those needing water analysis assistance. And, PWW team members get out and work on water projects when the streets are calm and safe transportation is possible.

As we have said many times before, above all, Haitians are resilient. We continue to see their spirits rise above, even in the face of this tumultuous time. We join them in their pursuit for a brighter future and are hopeful that a resolution can, and will, be achieved soon so that children are able to return to school, families will be reunited, and important, life-saving work can commence.

Thank you so very much for your continued compassion, commitment, and support of a healthier, brighter future for the people of Haiti.

With gratitude,

Jamin Gelder
Deputy Director