New soccer balls get banana kicked in Haiti

July 28, 2010


Port-au-Prince, Haiti




























My family and friends generously donated quite a few soccer (footballs) for me to bring to Haiti to give to the children we meet during our travels. When we visited Centres Gheskio, we learned of a new school of 600 students that was recently set up for children who live in a nearby tent city. The soccer team at the school had an upcoming match scheduled and their only football had burst, so they were thrilled to receive new soccer balls. We wish the Centre Soccer Team good luck and hope the new soccer balls bring them a win!



Since we've been here, we've met with the leadership team from the PNCS (Programme National de Cantines Scolaires) to discuss the progress with schools re-opening and the resumption of the school lunch program. The schools that survived the earthquake are back in session and new schools set up to serve the children of families living in tent cities are providing a sense of normalcy and routine. The school lunch meals are welcomed by the children and provide much needed nutrition.


One of the truly remarkable buildings in downtown Port-au-Prince was the National Palace. Standing for almost a century, it was a symbol of Haitian indepence. It's nickname is the Haitian White House. The domed entrances, prominent porticos and white pillars were devasted by the January 12, 2010 earthquake and it is heart-breaking to see the demise of such an architectural icon. George baussan was a Haitian who had studied Beaux Arts architecture in Paris. He designed the palace incorporating Beaux Arts, Neoclassical and French Renaissance Revival ideas. The French government has offered to build an identical palace in its place.

There are enormous challenges facing the nation of Haiti; yet, wherever we went, we were greeted with warmth and hospitality. The Haitian people believe in a better life for their children and are eager to find opportunities to achieve a better life. We have seen signs of reconstruction and international assistance as we traveled throughout the city. There is hope here and that is quickly evident when you meet the people living and working here.

Regards,

Bridget