Haitians have been largely housebound as of late, afraid to leave the relative safety of their homes due to ongoing gang activity surrounding the country. The UN estimates that gangs control 80% of the capital city of Port au Prince. The people of Haiti remain resilient nevertheless, as evidenced by recent signs of a semblance of normal life resuming. A student venturing outside to bravely find a route to school, a woman selling fresh produce on the street to provide for her family; these are all examples of the courage Haitians are showing amidst ongoing violence and instability.
Haiti has experienced rising prices for supplies like gasoline and food products. These increasing costs combined with job losses have sunk Haiti’s economy even further. It is estimated that 94% of households have no food saved up and rely on daily purchases to provide their meals. Â
Image Source: https://borgenproject.org/facts-about-hunger-in-haiti/
On April 30th, Haiti’s transitional council named a new council president and proposed a new interim prime minister. This nine person committee will implement certain presidential authority until a new president-elect is inaugurated, which must happen by February 2026.
We hope these newly appointed positions will provide new stability and safety to Haiti. However, the nutrition situation remains bleak as an estimated five million people face acute food insecurity. It is more essential than ever to continue supporting programs like Men Kontre (Helping Hands) to battle against hunger and provide food for vulnerable children and families.
We are inspired by Haitians’ determined spirit to press forward and once again pick up daily activities. If you also feel empowered by them, we encourage you to get involved and learn how you can support our friends in Haiti during this critical time!
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