OPODNE Leaders Open Computer Training Centers and Deliver Medical Supplies to Local Communities

While most development is on pause as the government sorts through the contested Haitian election, PICO Haiti leaders in the Northeast are addressing basic education and health needs by delivering medical supplies and providing computer training.

In Paulette, Caracol, Phaeton, Vallieres, St. Suzanne and Capotille, leaders have built and are operating computer training centers so both they and their children can learn skills needed for a brighter future. According to some reports, only 10% of public funds are used for schools; 90% if teachers need more training, and nearly 50% of students drop out. While most public and private schools struggle, PICO Haiti leaders Jean Mirvil and Marie St-Fleur are principals at two model schools – S&H School in Caracol and Le lycée Fortuné Audate in Mombin Crochu. In addition Jean is providing training for teachers at workshops organized by OPODNE leaders.

Medical supplies are another area of great need being addressed by PICO leaders. Lack of adequate health care continues to inhibit citizens’ full participation in developing a stable nation. The health system was devastated by the 2010 earthquake, which demolished 50 health centers. Only months later, Haiti’s health care network was overwhelmed by the cholera outbreak and now by the Zika virus. PICO Haiti was able to enlist the help of Medical Ministries International who provided a container full of medical supplies for hospitals and clinics in the Northeast. Thank you! After months of delay because of government dysfunction, leaders will soon be able to share a little health care to communities in need.

Leaders from all thirteen communities are meeting monthly to plan activities for the coming year. They also continue to organize road building, clean up, and tree planting activities to care for their fragile environment. Government may be broken, but the spirit of these valiant leaders is vibrant.

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