by Wood Parker, CCH Board of Directors President

I was in Haiti earlier this week to meet with our CCH staff regarding our ministries and operations. Many of you are aware of the political crisis in Haiti, and the seemingly unending protests that are disrupting life. These protests have affected CCH significantly.

When I was in Haiti in August with a CCH Education Team of volunteers, a sense of unease and frustration were growing. Trucks from Port au Prince could not deliver diesel fuel to Jacmel (where we serve) because of road blockages. As a result, the city did not have electricity for the entire two weeks we were there. The ubiquitous motorcycles were missing from the streets. Haiti’s currency was in a free fall, and inflation was skyrocketing.

In the ensuing months businesses closed; schools opened briefly then quickly shut down. Life for Haitians became even more expensive and difficult than normal. CCH had to cancel every team – medical, education, youth groups and “come and serve” teams – for the last quarter of 2019.

Our staff in Haiti are making every effort to stay open and serve the community. Our primary care clinic and rehabilitation clinics have been open throughout this period. There are few healthcare facilities still functioning in southeast Haiti, so our presence is vital. Most of the schools we support have been temporarily shuttered, but our education staff have helped those who tried to open. They’ve met with the principals and teachers to offer support and brainstorm solutions. The creativity and dedication of our CCH staff have inspired me.

Unfortunately, Haiti’s rising inflation and diminished revenue from travelers have decimated our budget. CCH now has very little funding to cover the costs of our staff and other expenses. I had to inform our staff of cutbacks that we believe are necessary. We are trying to achieve cost reductions while continuing to serve the people of Haiti. These temporary reductions in staff hours and facility operations still allow us to keep our clinic open to serve as many patients as possible during this difficult time. The current changes also ensure that CCH is ready to serve at full capacity again when the situation in Haiti returns to normal. 

The big question remains: When will we see a return to normalcy?

The crisis was caused by anger against a president and a political class accused of widespread corruption. The president is still refusing calls to resign, and the opposition is pledging to continue to protest until he does.

However, when I met with Haitians this week, their hope was evident and heartwarming. Several said to me, “God is good! I think things may be returning to normal.” Several principals hope to reopen their schools after the first of the year.

Diesel deliveries are occurring regularly, and we had consistent electricity throughout my stay this week. The streets of Jacmel were busy with motos and taptaps transporting passengers and produce. The cost of gasoline has come back down to roughly what it was this past summer. Haitian youth were playing soccer in the fields and side streets of Jacmel.

It is clear to me that outside of the political opposition, people are tired of the prolonged crisis. Most want things to return to normal. Our CCH staff are longing for normalcy too.

I don’t know what to expect. The situation is tenuous and uncertain. But we believe that God is in control, and we continue to pray.

I was struck by the response of our staff to the difficult news I was bringing them. To share one example, I was informing the medical staff that we have to reduce their hours and salaries. One person said, “Wood, we understand. It is important for the CCH clinics to remain open because the people need healthcare and they have no other place to go. I think we should keep the clinic open. You pay us for halftime, and we will volunteer the rest of the time.” Of course, these folks still have to support their families during a very difficult time. But her comment made me feel incredibly humble and thankful for our dedicated Haitian staff. Indeed, the clinic will remain open five days per week moving forward, thanks to our staff’s leadership and commitment to this mission. 

I am grateful to all of you who remain committed to our work and mission in Haiti. Our days may be fraught with challenges, but your continued support gives me hope and confidence that we will achieve positive and lasting change in the lives of many people in Haiti.

Please pray for CCH and the Haitian people.