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Hope in Hard Places

18 September 2025

Growing More Than Food

In the mountains of La Gonâve, Haiti, hope is growing - sometimes quite literally. PiFò Haiti’s garden project is expanding, with new papaya trees promising a vital income stream for the community. 

The team has worked tirelessly to clear land and build fencing, even carrying heavy wood on foot from the forest to construct shade structures for vulnerable plants.

“We had to carry the wood on our shoulders for over a kilometre,” Emerson, PiFò Haiti’s local manager, told us. “But they were free, so it was worth it!”

His humour and determination reflect the spirit that keeps PiFò Haiti going, even in the face of immense challenges.

Planting Papaya trees
Papaya seedlings
A few months later
Fruit of endeavours

A Country in Crisis

Port-au-Prince is now 90% gang-controlled, and travel between the island and the mainland has become increasingly dangerous. Daily kidnappings and robberies on the water have made it unsafe to transport essential supplies. PiFò Haiti has been waiting for months to safely bring over large water tanks and other materials needed to complete their projects.

“We can’t get supplies safely from the mainland to complete our projects quickly,” said Emerson, “But knowing the money is there and people are praying for us gives us hope each day. We always trust God’s timing.”

Despite these challenges, PiFò Haiti continues to serve faithfully. Over 250 meals are provided each school day across their three schools. More than 40 local workers are employed through education and agriculture programmes. Vulnerable children, elderly neighbours, and even prisoners are receiving food. In addition, children are receiving tuition support.

But this year has also brought deep sorrow. Glodner Mathurin, a former teacher and church elder, was murdered by gang members while returning from the mainland after cashing his paycheque. His death has left a painful gap in the lives of those who knew and loved him. Thanks to generous donations, PiFò Haiti has been able to support his family with funeral costs and help his children continue their education.

A Life Transformed

Amid such heavy losses, there are glimpses of transformation. Fleur, whose story many of our supporters will remember, continues to flourish. Once overwhelmed by despair, she is now living independently and caring for her child. She’s thriving in PiFò Haiti’s sewing programme, creating her own patterns and earning an income by sewing dresses for her local church choir. Her confidence and health have visibly improved.

“She was SO happy when I told her how proud I was,” shared Wendy, PiFò Haiti’s volunteer director. “From wanting to end her life to making money and living on her own… God is good!”

The right tools
The right measurements
The right result

Still Standing, Still Serving

As Wendy marks 14 years since her first trip to Haiti, she reflects on the journey:

“My daily desire is to be teachable, even if it means relearning how I can effectively help others. Thank you for continuing to journey with us. You ARE making a difference.”

How You Can Help

Whether you support PiFò Haiti through prayer, giving, or simply by staying informed, thank you. You’re part of a story that’s bringing hope in hard places.

If you’d like to help PiFò Haiti continue feeding children, supporting grieving families, and helping people like Fleur build a future filled with dignity and purpose, you can give today or share this story with someone who might be encouraged by it.

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We would love to let you know about how your support is transforming lives by sending you our latest updates and appeals.

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