About CCH + Documents: Important Information (FAQ)
Download as a PDF
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Do I need a passport? Yes, The application may be obtained and submitted in person at your nearest Passport Office, US District Court, and at some Post Offices. Passports take between 4-6 weeks for issuance (for a fee, it can be expedited). Apply as soon as possible. Bring 2 photocopies of your passport with you on your trip.
2) Do I need any vaccinations? Yes. Consult your personal physician or community health department (6 weeks in advance).
3) Do I need a visa? Maybe – check with us. If you are an American citizen, you do not need a visa.
4) Is it safe? Haiti is a country having a history of political and economic turmoil. However, Haitians love to show hospitality to visitors and North Americans are generally safe in Haiti. CCH remains in contact with knowledgeable people in Haiti, the US State Department, and US Embassy regarding the security situation and we take every precaution to assure the safety of our group members. Numerous groups have visited Haiti with CCH within the past few years and there have been no incidence of violence. In certain rare cases, we will postpone the trip.
5) How much luggage can I take? Personal luggage is limited to 25lbs. Bring a small suitcase (preferably with wheels) or backpack. Medical supplies and essential mission items take precedence, so you will be asked to carry additional items with you.
6) What about laundry? All laundry is done by hand. There are sinks at the Minnesota Dorm or one of the Haitian ladies at the dorm will wash you clothing for $3 per time.
7) What are the accommodations like? We will be staying in the Minnesota Dorm, with screened windows, cots, shower and bathroom facilities, Internet access, and ceiling fans. Towels, sheets and pillows are provided.
8) What will we eat? All meals are provided by CBP at the Minnesota dorm. Some meals are simple, while others are festive. Rice and beans is the staple, but things like peanut butter, honey, coke, beer and fresh fruit are available. Filtered drinking water is available, along with coffee.
9) What is the weather like? Haiti is in the tropic and is very warm all year long. The average temperature only varies by five degrees from winter to summer. Late fall and the spring are the rainy seasons. Bring a long-sleeve shirt or light sweater for cool nights.
10) Should I bring valuables? We don’t recommend it since visitors stand out as people who often have valuables. Cameras are an exception. Haiti has much beauty and you will want to take [plenty of film and extra batteries. Please ask people prior to taking their picture.
11) Do I need insurance? CCH provided short-term missionary insurance for international travel. This covers health and emergency medical evacuation needs.
12) What if my family needs to contact me? Your family will be able to contact you at the Minnesota dorm at (202) 558-7759 or by email. The system is not 100% reliable, so tell them not to panic, should it not be working. There is also a Cyber Café, where it costs $1.00 per half hour for use. Your family can call several individuals in your Orientation booklet to contact us by phone in Haiti, separately from the Satellite system.