Joy and Hope of Haiti

When I first heard about your efforts in Haiti, with the Joy and Hope of Haiti - The Haiti Project, I had no clue what was involved nor a concept of the condition in which the people live. Then through some twist of fate, thanks to John Holmes and Rick Elliott, I found myself there experiencing it first hand. I can only say that I admire your courage and determination to help the people with the conviction that you have shown. There is no doubt that the need for help is there in that country. Since governments (Canada and USA) seem to turn a blind eye towards Haiti it is up to individuals to do what they can, at this point, to give the people some hope. Well, you are certainly doing your part (and then some). When I decided to go I asked some of my friends if they would help sponsor my trip. I was amazed at the support that I received. I am blessed with some very good and kind friends who were happy to help any way possible. I raised just over $3000.00 Canadian. Once I saw the pledges building, I changed my mind on what I would do with the funds. I decided to wait until after the trip and see if there was something significant that the orphanage was in need of. Rather than simply donating the funds, I believed that my supporters' interest would be best served by participating in a shopping spree. After my visit and talking with Pastor Mano, we decided that the purchase of something with both recreational and educational value was the ticket - a TV with a VCR/DVD/CD. These could be set up in the main room of the orphanage and through donations of videos the kids will enjoy movies, documentaries, instructional tapes in life and language as well as music. The benefits will hopefully be there for many children to enjoy for years to come. Then to add to the concept, thanks to Esther Pauls (always on the ball), we added two tower speakers and a receiver to boost power output. Now, with Mano's agreement the set will be pulled out to the raised landing on a weekly basis and children from the neighbourhood will be allowed into the compound for a movie. So the community will also receive a benefit from the set. During a business trip, I met Pastor in Florida recently where we purchased the equipment and arranged for shipment to Haiti. The look on his face when we were in the store told the entire tale of pleasure that I believe this will bring. I understand that has now arrived in Haiti and will be put to use soon. I know, that when we look at the big picture for the needs of the people of Haiti, this is but a drop in the ocean, but it is one drop. Hopefully word will spread and you will continue to get all the help you need in your mission of - The Haiti Project. On behalf of my sponsors, we wish you the best health and success in the future as your cause is noble and right.


	Welcome to the Joy and Hope of Haiti Website

Home Who We Are Background Our History Future Vision Community Connections Projects 2000 2002 2003 2004 Fougerole Orphanage Fundraisers Charity Auction Road2Hope Watch a short video of 2009 Road2Hope Event 100 Holes For Haiti Help A Child Orphanage Sponsorship Birthing Kits H.E.A.R.T.S Healthy Smiles for Haiti Work Trips Our Stories Why Stories Esther's Story Georgina's Story Fred's Story Russell's Story As told to the Beacon Magazine Action Magazine Story Heart to Help (The Journal, Spectator) Another World (Spectator) Building a Dream on a Garbage Dump Photo Journal Contact Us Wish List	Russell's Story By Russell Demeny Dear Joan and Jim, When I first heard about your efforts in Haiti, with the Joy and Hope of Haiti - The Haiti Project, I had no clue what was involved nor a concept of the condition in which the people live. Then through some twist of fate, thanks to John Holmes and Rick Elliott, I found myself there experiencing it first hand. I can only say that I admire your courage and determination to help the people with the conviction that you have shown. There is no doubt that the need for help is there in that country. Since governments (Canada and USA) seem to turn a blind eye towards Haiti it is up to individuals to do what they can, at this point, to give the people some hope. Well, you are certainly doing your part (and then some). When I decided to go I asked some of my friends if they would help sponsor my trip. I was amazed at the support that I received. I am blessed with some very good and kind friends who were happy to help any way possible. I raised just over $3000.00 Canadian. Once I saw the pledges building, I changed my mind on what I would do with the funds. I decided to wait until after the trip and see if there was something significant that the orphanage was in need of. Rather than simply donating the funds, I believed that my supporters' interest would be best served by participating in a shopping spree. After my visit and talking with Pastor Mano, we decided that the purchase of something with both recreational and educational value was the ticket - a TV with a VCR/DVD/CD. These could be set up in the main room of the orphanage and through donations of videos the kids will enjoy movies, documentaries, instructional tapes in life and language as well as music. The benefits will hopefully be there for many children to enjoy for years to come. Then to add to the concept, thanks to Esther Pauls (always on the ball), we added two tower speakers and a receiver to boost power output. Now, with Mano's agreement the set will be pulled out to the raised landing on a weekly basis and children from the neighbourhood will be allowed into the compound for a movie. So the community will also receive a benefit from the set. During a business trip, I met Pastor in Florida recently where we purchased the equipment and arranged for shipment to Haiti. The look on his face when we were in the store told the entire tale of pleasure that I believe this will bring. I understand that has now arrived in Haiti and will be put to use soon. I know, that when we look at the big picture for the needs of the people of Haiti, this is but a drop in the ocean, but it is one drop. Hopefully word will spread and you will continue to get all the help you need in your mission of - The Haiti Project. On behalf of my sponsors, we wish you the best health and success in the future as your cause is noble and right.
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