43 Days...Not That We're Counting...

It’s hard to believe that in just 6 short weeks, we will finally be on our way to Haiti! We still have a lot of work to do to prepare…but are so excited about all that God has planned for us as a team. We are taking on a very special mission this year...

Among the millions of Haitians impacted by the 2010 earthquake is a large community of deaf families. Immediately after the earthquake, with the help and generosity of a few relief organizations, the deaf community organized themselves into tents and ultimately into temporary wooden structures in Port-au-Prince. Their recovery has been particularly difficult as they are often exploited by their neighbors to gain access to the aid that is intended for them.

 In September 2010, an organization called The 410 Bridge agreed to undertake a development effort that would help the deaf create a permanently sustainable community outside the city.  They now have access to the land and infrastructure they need to launch their permanent community in Leveque, Haiti.  Dozens of families have moved in and Leveque is beginning to thrive. Gardens are flourishing, residents are learning and taking part in art workshops, and Tuesday afternoon soccer games are bringing the community together through sportsmanship and competition. Our team will be working with The 410 Bridge and will spend 8 days teaching and ministering to the teachers and children of the community.

Through the support of our amazing friends, family and church community, we have officially reached the halfway mark of our fundraising goal…and then some! We’re working hard to raise the rest by the end of this month. We were overwhelmed by the generosity of all you Seacoasters who stopped by to support us this past weekend at our boxed lunch event. We had a blast and hope you all enjoyed your lunch!

Half of Team Haiti ready to serve lunches!

Over the past few weeks, we’ve really taken some time to get to know each other and bond as a team. It is pretty amazing how God brings people together. Not only does He have great things planned for these 11 women in Haiti, but it is very apparent that He brought each and every one of us to this group for a specific purpose. The honesty, affirmation, transparency, love and spirit that has been kindled in this team can be described as nothing less than a blessing. I think we’ve all been overwhelmed with the feeling that God has brought us together for even more than this mission…that maybe this journey is His way of bringing us into a lifetime of friendship as well. We are so excited for all the work He has planned in and through us in Leveque and can’t wait to share it with you! Please continue to keep this team and the people of Leveque in your prayers as we prepare. We can’t wait to get there!