Haiti

Years of political volatility and crippling natural disasters have hurt Haiti’s economy. In May 2018, people protested in Port-au-Prince, the capital, because of the government’s attempt to end existing fuel subsidies. Businesses and schools went on strike, and ultimately the entire government was replaced because of the disruption. Resulting political instability rocked an already shaky country. National pride was boosted, though, when a Haitian team represented the first ever Caribbean participation in the FIFA Women’s World Cup. The fuel increase strikes and instability jeopardized basics like food, as businesses and social infrastructure were affected. Prolonged drought and ongoing impact from previous natural disasters leave many families unsure where their next meal will come from. Gender inequality is high, especially in governmental or high-ranking jobs. And gender-based violence poses a significant problem, partly because no specific laws against domestic violence or sexual harassment exist. Child labor is widely accepted in Haiti, although the U.N. has condemned the practice. An in-country report found that about half of Haitians over 15 are illiterate, due in part to a number of schools that are prohibitively expensive for many people. Thanks to the support of our donors, over 500,000 Haitian children’s lives are changing. Along with partners, we improved children’s health by making sure they’re dewormed. More people gained access to sustainable sources of clean water, so they don’t suffer from waterborne diseases. We equipped communities to build sanitation facilities so diseases aren’t spread. Kids in need are getting lunches at school, so they can focus better on their studies. Protecting children, empowering families to raise kids with love, and equipping vulnerable people to find stable livelihoods are all ways we’re continuing to support the people of Haiti.