About Haiti
Haiti is a beautiful island located in the Caribbean 800 miles south of Florida. It shares the island of Hispanola with the Dominican Republic. When a lot of people think about Haiti, images of poverty and desperation come to mind. Although it is true that Haiti is the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, this is not what we see. We want to work to change peoples mindsets so that they too are capable of seeing the true beauty that resides here.
Haiti is known for its “mountains beyond mountains” as well as its amazing beaches and many waterfalls. There are old forts and castles littering the country, one of which, the Citadel, is the largest castle in North America. The Citadel stands on top of a near by mountain and overlooks all of Cap Haitien as well as the New Roots Property. Haiti is 10,000 square miles and home to 11 million residents. The average Haitian Salary is $300 US per year.
After years of war against the French, Haiti was the first black nation to receive their independence in 1804. The Haitian Revolution inspired slaves around the World to fight for their independence as well. Haiti used to be referred to as the Venice of the Caribbean, or the Pearl. It was a very wealthy nation which exported sugar and other merchandise around the World.
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The National Language is French but Creole is the more common tongue. The Haitian people are resourceful, strong, and hard working. Many have experienced and over come unthinkable hardships; yet they continue on day after day with their heads held high, proud of themselves and their small country!
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Although we have worked for years to show the positive side of Haiti, unfortunatly over the last few years, things have begun to change.
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Since 2019, Haiti has been plagued with political instability and unrest that has brought a lot of turmoil to the country. Gangs have grown in strength and number and have been involved in kidnaping, riots, and holding the incoming fuel hostage. Inflation, blocked roads, and gas shortages have unfortunately become common everyday life for millions of civilians.
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In 2021, President Jovenel Moise was assassinated in his own home, causing the country to spiral even further out of control.
Despite all of the challenges, Haitian continue to be some of the most resilient people groups we know.