As a new Haitian government tries to get its footing and stem violence in Port au Prince, most Haitians outside the capitol are focused on feeding and protecting their families. OPODH is continuing to grow because leaders are addressing the needs of communities abandoned by their government. OPODH is beginning work in another five communities in the North Department, adding to the five already at work in that department as well as the 62 in the Northeast. Every month more communities ask OPODH to help them get better organized.
As violence threatens parts of Haiti, OPODH is doing what it can to prevent violence and conflict in the North and Northeast Departments. All 62 of OPODH’s local leadership teams are conducting training on conflict resolution and identifying concrete ways people can work together to improve the health of their communities.
Five of seven local communities successfully piloted a seed bank program, returning more bean, okra, peanut and other seeds than contracted. These seeds will allow more farmers to participate this coming year.
Fifty-six communities are completing an evaluation of their Mutual Aid Lending programs that are serving more than 3,500 families. The InterAmerican Foundation (IAF) has committed financial support to expand this effort that provides much needed funds for school fees, commerce and family support.
This August, leaders will gather in a General Assembly to celebrate their success and lay out plans for the coming year. The story of growth and self-determination continues. Stay tuned.
