Selected Archives
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Pennies from Heaven
School Drive nets Hundreds (2011)
Alburgh, VT, May 18, 2011-- A stack of pennies collected by a fourth grade class at Alburgh Elementary School has risen close to Penniesfour hundred dollars to benefit the Vermont Haiti Project.
“We did this in conjunction with a fun math project,” said fourth grade teacher Ken Herz (below, right). We wanted to see if one billion pennies would fill up our classroom!”
In the end, by using one full crate as a measuring tool, the class concluded that it would need 204-million pennies to fill the room. More importantly, the kids raised close to 40 thousand pennies. After bank service charges (converting the pennies to dollars), rouAlburgCheckghly 375 dollars will go to the Vermont Haiti Project.
“We did this in conjunction with a fun math project,” said fourth grade teacher Ken Herz (below, right). We wanted to see if one billion pennies would fill up our classroom!”
In the end, by using one full crate as a measuring tool, the class concluded that it would need 204-million pennies to fill the room. More importantly, the kids raised close to 40 thousand pennies. After bank service charges (converting the pennies to dollars), rouAlburgCheckghly 375 dollars will go to the Vermont Haiti Project.
“More than just doing a math experiment, we wanted to put the pennies to good charitable use,” said Herz. “I knew about the Vermont Haiti Project and told the kids about it, and they were eager to donate.”
VHP co-director Tim Singer (left) came to the Alburgh school today to receive the check. “That was a great thing you did,” Singer told the kids, while sharing with them the programs VHP is involved with in Haiti. “Thank you so much for your donation. The money will be put to good use in our schools, medical clinic and water programs.”
VHP co-director Tim Singer (left) came to the Alburgh school today to receive the check. “That was a great thing you did,” Singer told the kids, while sharing with them the programs VHP is involved with in Haiti. “Thank you so much for your donation. The money will be put to good use in our schools, medical clinic and water programs.”
Staving Off the Cholera Outbreak
VHP’s water filters keep community healthy (November, 2010)
During a year that has already seen a tragic earthquake, nationwide floods, and political unrest, Haiti has now been plagued by an outbreak of cholera. The death toll has exceeded one thousand from this infection of the small intestine primarily caused by consuming contaminated drinking water or food. Thankfully, the use of bio-sand water filters, which Vermont Haiti Project has provided to communities at vManyFiltersirtually no cost, has resulted in zero incidents of cholera.
VHP partner Despagne Felix, supervisor of VHP’s water filter program in Port au Prince, reports:
To VHP Vermont
From Haiti
We're feeling so happy to write on the name of our community because we want to say thank you to all members and friends of VHP for all great support.
VHP has given us the opportunity and ability to treat and to have Clean Water to drink! We also want to say thank you to friends at Rotary South Burlington.
Since Jan. 2009, we started to solve a lot problems of disease in our community with using Bio-sand filters for water to drink, to do everything, and to help tFiltero save the money that people used to buy water before. We also do a lot of education for the people.
The Bio-sand filter is a big protection for us, it help us to prevent so many kind of microbes since 2009 to today.
As now, our area and I, we have not yet been touch by the cholera.
We're so happy and feel free to say that, grace of God and VHP, our community of Port-Au-Prince, Delmas 60 Musseau will be not be touched by the cholera.
Thank you and God bless you,
Emmanuel, Patrick, Michelson,
Despagne: Manager of the VHP program in Haiti.
VHP partner Despagne Felix, supervisor of VHP’s water filter program in Port au Prince, reports:
To VHP Vermont
From Haiti
We're feeling so happy to write on the name of our community because we want to say thank you to all members and friends of VHP for all great support.
VHP has given us the opportunity and ability to treat and to have Clean Water to drink! We also want to say thank you to friends at Rotary South Burlington.
Since Jan. 2009, we started to solve a lot problems of disease in our community with using Bio-sand filters for water to drink, to do everything, and to help tFiltero save the money that people used to buy water before. We also do a lot of education for the people.
The Bio-sand filter is a big protection for us, it help us to prevent so many kind of microbes since 2009 to today.
As now, our area and I, we have not yet been touch by the cholera.
We're so happy and feel free to say that, grace of God and VHP, our community of Port-Au-Prince, Delmas 60 Musseau will be not be touched by the cholera.
Thank you and God bless you,
Emmanuel, Patrick, Michelson,
Despagne: Manager of the VHP program in Haiti.
VHP's Despagne Felix:
First Hand Account of Earthquake (July, 2010)
SHELTER FROM THE STORM
HAITIANS BENEFIT FROM TENT DONATIONS (May, 2010)
Thousands of homes and businesses were destroyed by the January 12, 2010 earthquake that centered near Port au Prince. Additionally, many residents and store owners have refused to re-enter their dwellings, out of fear of instability, or a subsequent quake.
The result is that many Haitians now find themselves living and working in tents-- at least until they are assured a safe return into their dwelling. To assist, VHP has enlisted the generous support of Phillip Aaronson to help raise funds for the purpose of temporary shelter.
Aaronson reports on a delivery made to the VHP-supported Ecole Foyer Despoir:
The result is that many Haitians now find themselves living and working in tents-- at least until they are assured a safe return into their dwelling. To assist, VHP has enlisted the generous support of Phillip Aaronson to help raise funds for the purpose of temporary shelter.
Aaronson reports on a delivery made to the VHP-supported Ecole Foyer Despoir:
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Dear Friends and Family,
Yesterday I was finally able to get some photos of the distribution of the tents, DSCF2450mosquito nets and tarps in Port-au-Prince. You will see that some of the tarps were used to set up makeshift classrooms for a school. The tents were distributed to people in the neighborhood by the Maudé family that runs the school and cares for many children. I have met Maria and Ysmay and some of their extended family. They told me that the tents were received with much joy and excitement.
It has been a privilege to be in a position toDSCF2470 lend a helping hand in a time of dire need. You all made it possible and on behalf of all the people who benefitted from your generosity, I send a heartfelt thank you, with special thanks to Kimball Butler and all the other dedicated volunteers at the Vermont Haiti Project, who asked me back in January if I could find tents, and without whom this would not have been possible.
With blessings,
Phil
Yesterday I was finally able to get some photos of the distribution of the tents, DSCF2450mosquito nets and tarps in Port-au-Prince. You will see that some of the tarps were used to set up makeshift classrooms for a school. The tents were distributed to people in the neighborhood by the Maudé family that runs the school and cares for many children. I have met Maria and Ysmay and some of their extended family. They told me that the tents were received with much joy and excitement.
It has been a privilege to be in a position toDSCF2470 lend a helping hand in a time of dire need. You all made it possible and on behalf of all the people who benefitted from your generosity, I send a heartfelt thank you, with special thanks to Kimball Butler and all the other dedicated volunteers at the Vermont Haiti Project, who asked me back in January if I could find tents, and without whom this would not have been possible.
With blessings,
Phil
FIRST HAND ACCOUNT
EMOTIONAL OBSERVATIONS FROM VHP CO-DIRECTOR (April, 2010)
Members of the Vermont Haiti Project have been able to make three separate trips to the nation since the earthquake struck Haiti on January 12.
The most recent trip gave the board of directors a chance to assess the status of all of VHP’s self-sustaining programs. (See status report here)
Even as the team was occupied with planning for the future, there was no way not to notice the devastation and horrors that have befallen the Haitians. VHP co-director Augusta Wilson gives this account:
The most recent trip gave the board of directors a chance to assess the status of all of VHP’s self-sustaining programs. (See status report here)
Even as the team was occupied with planning for the future, there was no way not to notice the devastation and horrors that have befallen the Haitians. VHP co-director Augusta Wilson gives this account:
We are just back from Haiti. It has been almost 3 months since the earthquake and my biggest impression is the uncertainty that the people are dealing with – how long will they be living in a tent? Will they be able to repair or rebuild their house? Should they move out of the city? When will their children go back to school? Where? Is it safe?
So many problems, multiplying the difficult life they already had. In some places life appears as usual with street vendors and traffic congestion. Then, try to drive to a business to find it was destroyed. One can only imagine the loss and grief and memories of the terrifying events. So many sick and injured people remain in hospitals or need follow up care. Hundreds of people line up every morning at medical clinics, some get in, some try again tomorrow. When we were working at the Community Hospital clinic there were nurses, but not enough doctors. Were legs healed enough to bear weight? Was it time to remove a brace? Difficult to know for sure without an orthopedic specialist.
So many problems, multiplying the difficult life they already had. In some places life appears as usual with street vendors and traffic congestion. Then, try to drive to a business to find it was destroyed. One can only imagine the loss and grief and memories of the terrifying events. So many sick and injured people remain in hospitals or need follow up care. Hundreds of people line up every morning at medical clinics, some get in, some try again tomorrow. When we were working at the Community Hospital clinic there were nurses, but not enough doctors. Were legs healed enough to bear weight? Was it time to remove a brace? Difficult to know for sure without an orthopedic specialist.
We saw buildings caved in or flattened and people living in refugee camps all over Port au Prince and outside of the city. There are piles of rubble everywhere, some people scooping up crumbled cement into a dump truck, one shovelful at a time. The further from the airport you travel, and down side streets, the worse the conditions of these camps. Near the airport, the tents are made of shrink wrap over a dome of PVC pipes; they have water tanks, latrines and medical stations. Away from there, the shelters are made of cardboard, wood boards, sheet metal, tattered sheets and tarps over sticks; there is not enough water, food, medical attention, no latrine. We saw infected wounds and dehydrated babies, and a birth – woman in labor in a dirty tent with flies all over her, gave birth to a healthy appearing baby girl. The mom was given a clean tent and supplies the next day.
Maria, the school director, slept outside in the open with her small children for four days before they got a tarp. She is separated from her children now so they can be safe in the Dominican Republic with a relative, and Maria plans to reopen the Foyer d’Espoir school April 12, under a tent. Blackboard writing inside the school is still there “January 12, 2010” and Christmas decorations are still on the walls. With all of this there is courage, spirit and dignity.
We will stand with the Haitians and never turn away.
Maria, the school director, slept outside in the open with her small children for four days before they got a tarp. She is separated from her children now so they can be safe in the Dominican Republic with a relative, and Maria plans to reopen the Foyer d’Espoir school April 12, under a tent. Blackboard writing inside the school is still there “January 12, 2010” and Christmas decorations are still on the walls. With all of this there is courage, spirit and dignity.
We will stand with the Haitians and never turn away.
3000 Miles for a Cause
Cyclist to stage solo journey to benefit VHP (March, 2010)
Ride for Haiti is one man’s grassroots campaign to raise awareness of, and support for, emergency relief efforts and ongoing missions in the nation of Haiti.
Cole Starkey of Pennsylvania is committed to riding his bicycle 3000 miles in an effort to raise money for Vermont Haiti Project, and raise awareness about the plight of those touched by the recent disaster in Haiti. Previously Mr. Starkey, a friend of VHP board members, has ridden his bike across the United States, as well as served as a volunteer for various charitable organizations. He writes:
“In the summer of 2007 I completed a cross country bicycle trip from Yorktown, VA to San Francisco, CA. The ride was one of the greatest experiences of my life, and I have wanted to get back out and do another ride since. After that ride I realized there was an overwhelming amount of people who are interested in hearing the stories the road has to offer. I knew that in someColesRoute way I would like to harvest some of this interest and focus it towards a meaningful cause. “Having spent some time volunteering in another area struck by disaster while working for City Year in Louisiana, I noticed that the months following a natural disaster prove to be extremely critical in the success of the relief effort. My hope is that the Ride for Haiti will attract people to an organization that has and is continuing to do great work in Haiti.”
Starkey plans to finance his project himself and will begin his ride mid-March. Donations have already been pledged; you can donate and find out much more about Ride For Haiti by going to: www.rideforhaiti.org
Cole Starkey of Pennsylvania is committed to riding his bicycle 3000 miles in an effort to raise money for Vermont Haiti Project, and raise awareness about the plight of those touched by the recent disaster in Haiti. Previously Mr. Starkey, a friend of VHP board members, has ridden his bike across the United States, as well as served as a volunteer for various charitable organizations. He writes:
“In the summer of 2007 I completed a cross country bicycle trip from Yorktown, VA to San Francisco, CA. The ride was one of the greatest experiences of my life, and I have wanted to get back out and do another ride since. After that ride I realized there was an overwhelming amount of people who are interested in hearing the stories the road has to offer. I knew that in someColesRoute way I would like to harvest some of this interest and focus it towards a meaningful cause. “Having spent some time volunteering in another area struck by disaster while working for City Year in Louisiana, I noticed that the months following a natural disaster prove to be extremely critical in the success of the relief effort. My hope is that the Ride for Haiti will attract people to an organization that has and is continuing to do great work in Haiti.”
Starkey plans to finance his project himself and will begin his ride mid-March. Donations have already been pledged; you can donate and find out much more about Ride For Haiti by going to: www.rideforhaiti.org
A NIGHT OF MUSIC, FUN and FUND RAISING
Live Performances to Benefit VHP (March, 2010)
Dear Colleagues:
I am pleased to share that Fletcher Allen is sponsoring a fundraiser at The Higher Ground Ballroom in support of the Vermont Haiti Project, a volunteer organization that runs a number of projects and partnerships in support of Haiti.
The event will be held on Thursday, March 11, from 6:30-10:30 p.m. Doors open at six, and there is a recommended donation of $5 at the door.
The event will feature Fletcher Allen-related musical talent, including:
Karen McFeeters, Speech Pathology
Julie Winn with Brendan Hatch, Pharmacy
Smokin’ Gun, with Mike Socha, Cardiac Ultrasound
Smooth Buddha, with Andrew Kwass, Human Resources
Myra Flynn with Dave Grippo and Monique Citro O.R
Rock’d Country, featuring vocalist McKenna Lee, Human Resources; Charlie Jones, PRISM; Jeff Allen, Supply Chain; Heidi Bean, R.N.; and Monique Citro, O.R.
To learn more about the event and performers, please click on this link: http://www.highergroundmusic.com/calendar/show/3431/
The event will also include testimonials from staff who have returned from relief work in Haiti, and raffles that will also support the Vermont Haiti Project.
We hope that you will join us for this event. For further information, please contact Whitney Taylor, 7-8645.
Charlie Miceli
Vice President, Supply Chain Services
I am pleased to share that Fletcher Allen is sponsoring a fundraiser at The Higher Ground Ballroom in support of the Vermont Haiti Project, a volunteer organization that runs a number of projects and partnerships in support of Haiti.
The event will be held on Thursday, March 11, from 6:30-10:30 p.m. Doors open at six, and there is a recommended donation of $5 at the door.
The event will feature Fletcher Allen-related musical talent, including:
Karen McFeeters, Speech Pathology
Julie Winn with Brendan Hatch, Pharmacy
Smokin’ Gun, with Mike Socha, Cardiac Ultrasound
Smooth Buddha, with Andrew Kwass, Human Resources
Myra Flynn with Dave Grippo and Monique Citro O.R
Rock’d Country, featuring vocalist McKenna Lee, Human Resources; Charlie Jones, PRISM; Jeff Allen, Supply Chain; Heidi Bean, R.N.; and Monique Citro, O.R.
To learn more about the event and performers, please click on this link: http://www.highergroundmusic.com/calendar/show/3431/
The event will also include testimonials from staff who have returned from relief work in Haiti, and raffles that will also support the Vermont Haiti Project.
We hope that you will join us for this event. For further information, please contact Whitney Taylor, 7-8645.
Charlie Miceli
Vice President, Supply Chain Services
BIRTHDAY PRESENT
Seven Year-old Vermonter Gives to VHP (February, 2010)
In the wake of the earthquake that struck Haiti last month, Vermonters- young and old- have been showing their care for, and generosity to those effected.
And by young we mean, specifically, Bonnie, 7, of Brandon. As the invitation and accompanying note (above) suggest, Bonnie chose to bypass presents and instead, used her birthday party as a fund raising event for Vermont Haiti Project.
$140 was collected to go along with a spirit that should make all Vermonters proud.
And by young we mean, specifically, Bonnie, 7, of Brandon. As the invitation and accompanying note (above) suggest, Bonnie chose to bypass presents and instead, used her birthday party as a fund raising event for Vermont Haiti Project.
$140 was collected to go along with a spirit that should make all Vermonters proud.
VHP DIRECTORS BACK IN HAITI
Help for the present... Plans for the future (February, 2010)
Three days following her return to Vermont from an emergency assistance and assessment trip to Haiti and the Dominican Republic, VHP co-director Kimball Butler has returned to Hispaniola with fellow director Donna Thomas:
Kimball and Donna Thomas left February 8, with a plan to connect with the Haitian contingent of the Vermont Haiti Project and formulate their plans for the near future. During the next week they will assess the status of the school in Port au Prince that luckily, is still standing, but will need repairs. They will communicate with the teachers and hope to get the school open as soon as they can. The computers that were gathered in VT and shipped last May seem to be in working order. The whole neighborhood will benefit with a way to communicate out if the computers can get up and running. There is much to do!
And that brings us to VHP's exciting vision of a coordinated effort to create a Living and Learning Center on a piece of land that the Vermont Haiti project already has access to just outside of Port au Prince. Many different areas of focus could come together into this one Center. A school, a vocational training center including training in alternative energy sources and sustainable building technologies; a farming project; the Biosand water filter production; and a living space for visiting groups could all be housed on this site. The center would also be the site of health education, check-ups and medical supply distribution. A women's sewing cooperative that recently started up making bags out of recycled fabric and plastic to raise much needed funds could use the space as well. This is all still evolving but with the connecting of resources, ideas and people, we can make it happen! We will post another update about about progress in Haiti upon Kimball and Donna's return.
Here in VT there have been several local fundraisers for the Vermont Haiti Project including the Pennies for Port au Prince coin drive at Richmond Elementary school . Over $4,000 dollars were raised! Amazing! Check the list of upcoming VHP fundraising events. Come on out and bring a friend! A BIG thank you to all!
(reported by various VHP sources)
Kimball and Donna Thomas left February 8, with a plan to connect with the Haitian contingent of the Vermont Haiti Project and formulate their plans for the near future. During the next week they will assess the status of the school in Port au Prince that luckily, is still standing, but will need repairs. They will communicate with the teachers and hope to get the school open as soon as they can. The computers that were gathered in VT and shipped last May seem to be in working order. The whole neighborhood will benefit with a way to communicate out if the computers can get up and running. There is much to do!
And that brings us to VHP's exciting vision of a coordinated effort to create a Living and Learning Center on a piece of land that the Vermont Haiti project already has access to just outside of Port au Prince. Many different areas of focus could come together into this one Center. A school, a vocational training center including training in alternative energy sources and sustainable building technologies; a farming project; the Biosand water filter production; and a living space for visiting groups could all be housed on this site. The center would also be the site of health education, check-ups and medical supply distribution. A women's sewing cooperative that recently started up making bags out of recycled fabric and plastic to raise much needed funds could use the space as well. This is all still evolving but with the connecting of resources, ideas and people, we can make it happen! We will post another update about about progress in Haiti upon Kimball and Donna's return.
Here in VT there have been several local fundraisers for the Vermont Haiti Project including the Pennies for Port au Prince coin drive at Richmond Elementary school . Over $4,000 dollars were raised! Amazing! Check the list of upcoming VHP fundraising events. Come on out and bring a friend! A BIG thank you to all!
(reported by various VHP sources)
VHP DIRECTOR ARRIVES IN HAITI
Immediate Medical attention issued to survivors (January 2010)
VHP Volunteers in the back of the truck
Upon hearing the news of last week’s devastating 7.0 earthquake in Haiti, Kimball Butler swung into immediate action: Contacting friends and colleagues... appearing on local media... initiating a fund raising drive. In short time, the passionate co-Director of VHP felt it was time to visit Haiti herself; to contribute with recovery efforts, as well as assess the situation of VHP’s supported projects. Along with other Americans close to VHP, Butler traveled to Haiti via the Dominican Republic and has been able to issue brief, yet graphic and revealing news:
January 19 (Posted by Donna Thomas, VHP)- “Word from Kimball is that she spent the night at a makeshift hospital on the border (of Haiti and the Dominican Republic) with 4 O.R.'s. They have no narcotics. She is hoping to get to Fon Parisean today where they hope to set up camps for those trying to get out of Port au Prince.”
January 19 (Kimball)- “I'll be there tonight if we get the truck fixed. It needs a fuel filter. We are at the national laboratory, at the tent hospital-- just watched the amputation of a leg in tent on a crate with Ketamine.
“(VHP Haitian partner) Despagne is on his way to Duchity to bury the dead son of his cousin.
I Have seen some devastation!”
January 20 (Posted by Kimball’s sister, Laurel)- I was able to get thru to Kimball around 2pm today -- she, Elizabeth and Jason are fine - they went into Port au Prince today -- with a caravan of other cars -- all are OK - they were at a Belgium military setup while they were waiting to connect with Poulin (one of our Haiti family members - Despagne's- wife), then they are heading to Fon Parisean to work at a clinic/mission. They will connect w/ Stephanie, and Maria and her children who have arrived there . So far they are safe, and helping others!!!
January 21 (Donna)- Jason, Kimball, and Elizabeth drove a truck back and forth to a hospital on Delmas 33 transporting patients. They were able to get some morphine to bring back to a Haitian christian mission in Fon Parisian. Maria and her children are headed to the DR today. Stephanie is staying w...ith Kimball helping to translate. Despagne, Polene and family will come to Fon Parisian today and try to make a plan for the immediate future.
January 19 (Posted by Donna Thomas, VHP)- “Word from Kimball is that she spent the night at a makeshift hospital on the border (of Haiti and the Dominican Republic) with 4 O.R.'s. They have no narcotics. She is hoping to get to Fon Parisean today where they hope to set up camps for those trying to get out of Port au Prince.”
January 19 (Kimball)- “I'll be there tonight if we get the truck fixed. It needs a fuel filter. We are at the national laboratory, at the tent hospital-- just watched the amputation of a leg in tent on a crate with Ketamine.
“(VHP Haitian partner) Despagne is on his way to Duchity to bury the dead son of his cousin.
I Have seen some devastation!”
January 20 (Posted by Kimball’s sister, Laurel)- I was able to get thru to Kimball around 2pm today -- she, Elizabeth and Jason are fine - they went into Port au Prince today -- with a caravan of other cars -- all are OK - they were at a Belgium military setup while they were waiting to connect with Poulin (one of our Haiti family members - Despagne's- wife), then they are heading to Fon Parisean to work at a clinic/mission. They will connect w/ Stephanie, and Maria and her children who have arrived there . So far they are safe, and helping others!!!
January 21 (Donna)- Jason, Kimball, and Elizabeth drove a truck back and forth to a hospital on Delmas 33 transporting patients. They were able to get some morphine to bring back to a Haitian christian mission in Fon Parisian. Maria and her children are headed to the DR today. Stephanie is staying w...ith Kimball helping to translate. Despagne, Polene and family will come to Fon Parisian today and try to make a plan for the immediate future.
RECOVERY STRATEGY
VHP’S EFFORTS, AND HOPES TO REBUILD (January, 2010)
Several members of the Vermont Haiti Project are employed in various functions by Fletcher Allen University Medical Center in Burlington, VT. FAHC has responded with great generosity to the recent earthquake in Haiti. Ron Sweeten, founder of Project Haiti- VHP’s fore bearer- reports on the activity and issues his vision for relief assistance:
Here at Fletcher Allen we have organized a group of doctors, nurses, E.M.T.'s, paramedics, etc., who have signed up to do earthquake relief work. Right now 70 people; the plan here waFletcherAllens to send a team out every two weeks.
We also have access to medical supplies. There are trauma surgeons who are available right now... there is a group going with the Red Cross on Wednesday.
I understand that the Dominican is starting to get overwhelmed... a few have left already to the Dominican with plans to work just over the border.
I am putting this out to those of you I know who are connected to relief work with the hopes of connecting some dots. For now, I think we are looking to find a staging area or work area in the Dominican. We need to find a place to be of benefit in either Haiti or the Dominican. We have means of transportation of personnel and supplies and are looking for a way to get to Haiti via the D.R. We are also looking to find a place to work in Haiti. I know we all have connections and am hoping we can be instruments in getting these medical people where they are needed.
- Ron Sweeten
(Ron can be contacted at Fletcher Allen Health Care, or through the Vermont Haiti Project)
Here at Fletcher Allen we have organized a group of doctors, nurses, E.M.T.'s, paramedics, etc., who have signed up to do earthquake relief work. Right now 70 people; the plan here waFletcherAllens to send a team out every two weeks.
We also have access to medical supplies. There are trauma surgeons who are available right now... there is a group going with the Red Cross on Wednesday.
I understand that the Dominican is starting to get overwhelmed... a few have left already to the Dominican with plans to work just over the border.
I am putting this out to those of you I know who are connected to relief work with the hopes of connecting some dots. For now, I think we are looking to find a staging area or work area in the Dominican. We need to find a place to be of benefit in either Haiti or the Dominican. We have means of transportation of personnel and supplies and are looking for a way to get to Haiti via the D.R. We are also looking to find a place to work in Haiti. I know we all have connections and am hoping we can be instruments in getting these medical people where they are needed.
- Ron Sweeten
(Ron can be contacted at Fletcher Allen Health Care, or through the Vermont Haiti Project)
EARTHQUAKE AFTERMATH
VERMONT HAITI PROJECT’S ONGOING MISSION (January, 2010)
PRESS RELEASE:
Burlington, Vermont - January 19, 2010
Vermont Haiti Project continues to look forward in spite of the devastating earthquake. We have made a commitment to the communities we serve in Port au Prince and in the mountain village of Desab.
We will maintain our assistance in providing bio-sand water filters, supporting the rural clinic and the rebuilding of the school. VHP stresses the importance at this time of doing what we are familiar with, that each organization or group has its own niche to fill.
Haiti will be rebuilt as it has always been; rock by rock, block by block, neighborhood by neighborhood, and community by community.
We are urging people to support grass root organizations with a standing history of working with the people of Haiti. We are encouraging the exchange of resources and knowledge amongst the many organizations helping out in this difficult time of great need.
Burlington, Vermont - January 19, 2010
Vermont Haiti Project continues to look forward in spite of the devastating earthquake. We have made a commitment to the communities we serve in Port au Prince and in the mountain village of Desab.
We will maintain our assistance in providing bio-sand water filters, supporting the rural clinic and the rebuilding of the school. VHP stresses the importance at this time of doing what we are familiar with, that each organization or group has its own niche to fill.
Haiti will be rebuilt as it has always been; rock by rock, block by block, neighborhood by neighborhood, and community by community.
We are urging people to support grass root organizations with a standing history of working with the people of Haiti. We are encouraging the exchange of resources and knowledge amongst the many organizations helping out in this difficult time of great need.
A TRUCKLOAD OF GENEROSITY
(September, 2009)
In the spirit of so many Vermonters, Amy Beckwith wanted to help out the Vermont Haiti Project. “I’ve been wanting to get involved for awhile now, and since I couldn’t find the time to actually go to Haiti, I really wanted to do something!”
What Beckweth did was conceive a ambitious grassroots donation program. Labeled the “Spring Cleanup”, Beckweth and other VHP members and friends were able to solicit enough goods to literally fill up a warehouse.
Beckweth learned about VHP through the organization’s co-director Kimball Butler, whom she works with, and she put her program into effect in April. “I figured that since everyone tends to clean out their stuff each spring, we should get them to at least donate it to a worthy cause.”
The group received space in an empty office in Richmond, Vermont, and went about collecting: Furniture; clothing; shoes; electronics; sporting goods and an assortment of other items no longer wanted in Vermont, but of great value to the people of Haiti.
The collection drive lasted throughout the spring and summer and, in late September, a rented truck was loaded up and driven by LoadingAmy and Kimball to Miami. Phase two of the operation will see the goods shipped by boat to Port au Prince, where it will be met by members of VHP and volunteers.
What Beckweth did was conceive a ambitious grassroots donation program. Labeled the “Spring Cleanup”, Beckweth and other VHP members and friends were able to solicit enough goods to literally fill up a warehouse.
Beckweth learned about VHP through the organization’s co-director Kimball Butler, whom she works with, and she put her program into effect in April. “I figured that since everyone tends to clean out their stuff each spring, we should get them to at least donate it to a worthy cause.”
The group received space in an empty office in Richmond, Vermont, and went about collecting: Furniture; clothing; shoes; electronics; sporting goods and an assortment of other items no longer wanted in Vermont, but of great value to the people of Haiti.
The collection drive lasted throughout the spring and summer and, in late September, a rented truck was loaded up and driven by LoadingAmy and Kimball to Miami. Phase two of the operation will see the goods shipped by boat to Port au Prince, where it will be met by members of VHP and volunteers.
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“The plan is to distribute the items in a number of ways,” said Butler. “Certainly, our school/orphanage/children’s center can use a lot of help, but there are many others who can benefit.”
While the program has been deemed a huge success, it hasn’t been without it’s cost. “People were great in terms of donating things,” said Donna Thomas of VHP, “but we had to pay for the truck rental and transportation. We are still a few thousand dollars short. To help out, and read more about the Spring Cleanup, please go to this link.
While the truck is loaded and the goods are on their way, donations continue to be accepted. If you, or someone you know is interested in a financial or material donation, please CONTACT US.
While the program has been deemed a huge success, it hasn’t been without it’s cost. “People were great in terms of donating things,” said Donna Thomas of VHP, “but we had to pay for the truck rental and transportation. We are still a few thousand dollars short. To help out, and read more about the Spring Cleanup, please go to this link.
While the truck is loaded and the goods are on their way, donations continue to be accepted. If you, or someone you know is interested in a financial or material donation, please CONTACT US.
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Check out a video of VHP's "Spring Clean" |
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HAITIAN PARTNERS MAKE PLEA FOR CLEAN WATER
(August, 2009)
What most of the world takes for granted, most of Haiti’s citizens still consider a luxury. The access to clean water, and a system to deliver it is still severely lacking in the island nation.
rotary As has been previously reported on this web site, the Vermont Haiti Project is actively involved with a program to purchase water filtration systems for local installation and usage.
During the summer of 2009, VHP Haitian partner Despagne Felix addressed the issue with members of Vermont’s South Burlington Rotary Club. Felix touched on the success, to date, of the program, as well as the need for further funding and support. “My neighborhood has gotten many filters,” said Felix, “and it is a very good thing. The only other chance for water is from dirty rivers, or buying water in bottles.”
The response from the Rotarians was positive with the promise for some intial support, with the possibility of finding new ways to help the clean water mission.
Felix’s visit to BurSANY1165lington was just one stop during a summer-long visit to New England. When not making visits to help aid the causes of his community and VHP, Despagne spent time working at a summer camp in Massachusetts. Additionally, Haitian native Fenel Jean, manager of VHP’s medical facility in Desab, also spent time in Vermont during 2009. “It was great having Despagne and Fenel here,” voiced VHP co-director Tim Singer. “Not only is it fun to hang out with our friends and partners, but we were able to accomplish a lot of productive work and planning.”
For further information or if you, or someone you know is interested in donating or helping out the clean water program, please CONTACT US.
rotary As has been previously reported on this web site, the Vermont Haiti Project is actively involved with a program to purchase water filtration systems for local installation and usage.
During the summer of 2009, VHP Haitian partner Despagne Felix addressed the issue with members of Vermont’s South Burlington Rotary Club. Felix touched on the success, to date, of the program, as well as the need for further funding and support. “My neighborhood has gotten many filters,” said Felix, “and it is a very good thing. The only other chance for water is from dirty rivers, or buying water in bottles.”
The response from the Rotarians was positive with the promise for some intial support, with the possibility of finding new ways to help the clean water mission.
Felix’s visit to BurSANY1165lington was just one stop during a summer-long visit to New England. When not making visits to help aid the causes of his community and VHP, Despagne spent time working at a summer camp in Massachusetts. Additionally, Haitian native Fenel Jean, manager of VHP’s medical facility in Desab, also spent time in Vermont during 2009. “It was great having Despagne and Fenel here,” voiced VHP co-director Tim Singer. “Not only is it fun to hang out with our friends and partners, but we were able to accomplish a lot of productive work and planning.”
For further information or if you, or someone you know is interested in donating or helping out the clean water program, please CONTACT US.
THE AMERICAN EXPERIENCE - Part 2
(July, 2009)
Stephanie, an 18-year old student from Port au Prince, spent her second consecutive summer living and studying at St. Michaels College in Colchester, VT. Stephanie is the daughter of Despagne Felix, one of Vermont Haiti Project’s native team members.
Her tuition, and a portion of her expenses were paid for by the Vermont Haiti Project, most notably, team members Donna Thomas and Kimball Butler.
The Vermont Haiti Project looks at this experience as mutually beneficial. For starters, Stephanie has the opportunity to further her education and gain a valuable experience. At the same time, VHP will have- in Staphanie- a valuable friend, assistant and language translator while dealing with business in Haiti.
Aside from study, Stephanie has had the chance to make new friends, attend parties and functions, and experience summer in New England. The St. Michaels program caters to foreign students seeking to improve their English, while experiencing the American culture.
Her tuition, and a portion of her expenses were paid for by the Vermont Haiti Project, most notably, team members Donna Thomas and Kimball Butler.
The Vermont Haiti Project looks at this experience as mutually beneficial. For starters, Stephanie has the opportunity to further her education and gain a valuable experience. At the same time, VHP will have- in Staphanie- a valuable friend, assistant and language translator while dealing with business in Haiti.
Aside from study, Stephanie has had the chance to make new friends, attend parties and functions, and experience summer in New England. The St. Michaels program caters to foreign students seeking to improve their English, while experiencing the American culture.
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VHP BECOMES INDEPENDENT NOT-FOR-PROFIT
(June, 2009)
Get ready for Vermont Haiti Project, Inc.!
Since its inception in 2007, the Vermont Haiti Project has been working with theGroupShot help of the Vermont Institute on the Carribean. Thanks to VIC, generous donors have been given tax deductable receipts.
Now, VHP is going out on its own. Efforts are nearing completion to incorporate, establish tax exempt status, elect officers and select a board of directors. “VIC has been vital to helping us get off the ground,” stated Vermont Haiti Project spokesperson Tim Singer, “but, really, we have been acting OneOnOneon our own since the beginning. This is the next logical step. Very exciting!”
When the paperwork is finalized, information regarding any changes to donation and operating procedure will be posted. Until then, all donations are still being accepted and are, of course, greatly appreciated.
For further information or if you, or someone you know is interested in donating or helping out, please CONTACT US.
Since its inception in 2007, the Vermont Haiti Project has been working with theGroupShot help of the Vermont Institute on the Carribean. Thanks to VIC, generous donors have been given tax deductable receipts.
Now, VHP is going out on its own. Efforts are nearing completion to incorporate, establish tax exempt status, elect officers and select a board of directors. “VIC has been vital to helping us get off the ground,” stated Vermont Haiti Project spokesperson Tim Singer, “but, really, we have been acting OneOnOneon our own since the beginning. This is the next logical step. Very exciting!”
When the paperwork is finalized, information regarding any changes to donation and operating procedure will be posted. Until then, all donations are still being accepted and are, of course, greatly appreciated.
For further information or if you, or someone you know is interested in donating or helping out, please CONTACT US.
FULL-TIME MEDICAL CLINIC IN DESAB
(March 2009)
Thanks to financial backing from The Keane Foundation and other generous donors, Vermont Haiti Project has succeeded in establishing a regularly operating medical clinic in the remote village of Desab.
Working in partnership with Fenel Jean and Eunice Tassone of HASWEP, the clinic began operations in November, serving Desab and the neighboring villages. The clinic operates twice weekly, headed by Dr. Dorcelus, a physician who grew up in the region and currently practices medicine in the nearby town of Cabaret. Also on staff are a nurse, two health care assistants and a lab technician, with plans to add a part-time dentist.
“Things are going better than we could have expected,” raved Augusta Wilson who, along with her husband Tim Singer, helped to setup the clinic for the Vermont Haiti Project and HASWEP. “The dedication from the medical staff is amazing. One day while we were there, the road was impassable due to heavy rains, but the Doctor still arrived, having walked six miles- uphill- to the clinic!”
The dream of a full-time medical clinic has been long in the works. “For the past 20 years, a group of Vermonters- mostly health care workers- would travel to Desab,” said Singer. “They would put on clinics and see not only how badly the community needed health care, but how far people had to walk to receive it. And we only would come once or twice a year!”
Now that there is a regularly operating facility, the work is just beginning. “The community is really behind this, which is great,” said Wilson, “but there’s still so much help they need: More medicine... beds... they don’t even have a latrine.”
The Vermont Haiti Project will continue to support this effort in hopes of building a sustainable operation. If you, or someone you know is interested in donating or helping out, please CONTACT US.
Working in partnership with Fenel Jean and Eunice Tassone of HASWEP, the clinic began operations in November, serving Desab and the neighboring villages. The clinic operates twice weekly, headed by Dr. Dorcelus, a physician who grew up in the region and currently practices medicine in the nearby town of Cabaret. Also on staff are a nurse, two health care assistants and a lab technician, with plans to add a part-time dentist.
“Things are going better than we could have expected,” raved Augusta Wilson who, along with her husband Tim Singer, helped to setup the clinic for the Vermont Haiti Project and HASWEP. “The dedication from the medical staff is amazing. One day while we were there, the road was impassable due to heavy rains, but the Doctor still arrived, having walked six miles- uphill- to the clinic!”
The dream of a full-time medical clinic has been long in the works. “For the past 20 years, a group of Vermonters- mostly health care workers- would travel to Desab,” said Singer. “They would put on clinics and see not only how badly the community needed health care, but how far people had to walk to receive it. And we only would come once or twice a year!”
Now that there is a regularly operating facility, the work is just beginning. “The community is really behind this, which is great,” said Wilson, “but there’s still so much help they need: More medicine... beds... they don’t even have a latrine.”
The Vermont Haiti Project will continue to support this effort in hopes of building a sustainable operation. If you, or someone you know is interested in donating or helping out, please CONTACT US.
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Young Desab citizens help carry clean water to the medical clinic.
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VHP TRAINS STAFF and PURCHASES WATER FILTERS
(January, 2009)
Four Vermont Haiti Project members- Kimball, Donna, Alex and Daniel- spent two weeks in Haiti. Their primary purpose was to take part, as well as supervise in the training of building bio-sand water filters. Donna writes: “The 4 Haitian men who came to the training with us had their neighbors over and taught them about clean water. They were most engaging and after the first day had orders for 25 filters. The cost to us is 30 US dollars. The cost to a family is 5 US dollars. The difference will come from our pockets and from you. When a Haitian works, and work is scarce, he/she may make 8 dollars a day. Not enough for lunch in the US. The costs for food here are high. How anyone survives is beyond me.
'Our men' will be the technicians and will install the filters, teach the families about the care and use of the filters, and also a lesson in hygiene and about how germs and viruses are transmitted.”
The team also spent some time at the Port au Prince school/community center that Vermont Haiti Project helps to sustain. “It blows me away when we walk in and 120 children in 4 classrooms run up to greet us. Kimball, Daniel, Alex and I spent time playing games at recess with them. We gave each child a cup of their own so when they went to their water filter there they would not spread germs... The work that Maria and Ysmay and the 4 teachers are doing is worth all my doubts about why we are there.”
'Our men' will be the technicians and will install the filters, teach the families about the care and use of the filters, and also a lesson in hygiene and about how germs and viruses are transmitted.”
The team also spent some time at the Port au Prince school/community center that Vermont Haiti Project helps to sustain. “It blows me away when we walk in and 120 children in 4 classrooms run up to greet us. Kimball, Daniel, Alex and I spent time playing games at recess with them. We gave each child a cup of their own so when they went to their water filter there they would not spread germs... The work that Maria and Ysmay and the 4 teachers are doing is worth all my doubts about why we are there.”
Team Members Inspect Hurricane Devastation
(September, 2008)
Vermont Haiti Project co-coordinator Kimball Butler visited Haiti shortly after two hurricanes caused severe damage to the island nation. Kimball was in Haiti to follow-up on some of Vermont Haiti Projects ongoing programs, as well as explore a new agricultural venture in a remote mountain village.
However, there was no escaping the effect that the storms had on the island. Below left: Two children walk amidst a makeshift tent village, as many homes were destroyed from the flooding. Center: Rivers rendered many roads impassable by any vehicle other than boats. Right: Kimball and Despagne relax following a nine hour bus/boat/motorcycle trip into the mountains.
However, there was no escaping the effect that the storms had on the island. Below left: Two children walk amidst a makeshift tent village, as many homes were destroyed from the flooding. Center: Rivers rendered many roads impassable by any vehicle other than boats. Right: Kimball and Despagne relax following a nine hour bus/boat/motorcycle trip into the mountains.
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