The recent report by United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on the deteriorating situation in Haiti highlights the urgent need for international support to curb escalating gang violence and restore stability in the country. The report warns that insecurity in the capital has reached levels comparable to countries in armed conflict, with escalating kidnappings and violent crimes committed by gangs. The human rights situation in gang-controlled areas is appallingly poor, with killings, attacks, sexual violence, and snipers on rooftops frequently firing at people in their homes and on the streets.
This situation has significantly impacted Mission Discovery and our work in Onaville, Haiti, for several years. Onaville is a community that was established after the 2010 earthquake with the support of the Haitian government and international partners. Mission Discovery has been working with local partners to plant churches and provide education, clean water, health care, and other essential services to the community.
However, the escalating violence and insecurity in the country have made it increasingly difficult for Mission Discovery to carry out its work. Our activities have been curtailed due to security concerns. The situation has also affected the community’s access to essential services, with many healthcare facilities and schools forced to close due to the violence.
The situation in Haiti underscores the importance of investing in long-term, sustainable solutions to address the root causes of conflict and instability. Mission Discovery’s work in Onaville is a testament to the importance of community-based approaches to development, which prioritize local ownership and empowerment. However, progress will be difficult to achieve without sustained support from the international community to address the broader political and security challenges facing the country.
Despite the challenges posed by the escalating violence and insecurity in Haiti, Mission Discovery has been able to continue its work to provide clean water to the community of Onaville, thanks to the support of donors.
Our clean water initiative is a critical component of our work in the community, as access to safe and reliable water is essential for good health and hygiene. Mission Discovery has drilled wells and installed water stations in Onaville that provide clean water to the community. We also provide the funds to help community members maintain the system.
The support of donors has been essential to sustaining this initiative, as it has enabled Mission Discovery to continue to purchase and maintain water stations at our church plants. Despite the challenges posed by the security situation in the country, Mission Discovery remains committed to the vision of providing essential services to the community of Onaville.
The ability of Mission Discovery to continue our work in Haiti despite the challenging environment is a testament to the resilience and determination of the community we serve. It also highlights the critical role that donors play in supporting the work of non-profit organizations, particularly in challenging and unstable contexts like Haiti. By supporting initiatives like the clean water program in Onaville, donors are helping to make a real difference in the lives of people in need, even in the face of significant challenges.
Thank you to all who have donated to our clean water initiative in Haiti. And thank you to all that will.