Soccer Beyond Borders Final Day

Soccer Beyond Borders Final Day

On our final full day we took New Life to the beach to have some time away and to celebrate the 4th of July.  All of New Life really enjoys this trip each year and we shared the trip with teams from Georgia, Virginia and Texas. I was blessed to sit with James a five year old with the greatest smile and Pastor Jacque on the drive to and returning from the beach.  James sang to me and fell asleep on the drive there and James slept while Jacque sang Creole worships songs on the return trip.  One of the things I always share with others about our team trips to Haiti is that you receive more human contact in one week than you may even get in a year back in the states. There is usually always a baby to be held a toddler on your lap or a hug from a teen.  When anyone holds Moses he loves to throw up his arms and yell hallelujah and then laugh.  I finally had the chance to spend some time with Samson today. Samson has cerebral palsy and is confined to a wheel chair, but has a spirit we all could only hope for in our lives.  As I fed him his dinner I dropped some food on his shirt and he thought it was so funny he began to laugh. As I pushed Samson around New Life in his wheel chair (he loves the trip) I again realized that no matter how much we all give on this trip we receive far more love, laughs, hugs and blessings than we could ever imagine. The day finished with a time of dancing with the kids and we passed out glow sticks as a way to celebrate the 4th of July.  We even got a fireworks show as they would turn out the lights and throw all to glow sticks in the air to create a wonderful show.  We had a much larger team this year, but as in prior years the team came together and each member found their way to be the hands and feet of Jesus in Haiti. I was blessed to see the entire Keefer family experience Haiti this year. It was great as always to see Courtney hold the babies and Megan make new friends and Laura now understanding what I have shared with her the past two year.  I wrote this as we are on our final approach into Miami.  It was another truly blessed week in Haiti and I pray that our entire team will return home knowing each member did their best to be a blessings to others, but remembering how we are blessed even more profoundly by our time in Haiti.

John

Soccer Beyond Borders-Day Six

What a week it’s been! It never ceases to amaze me how quickly these Haiti mission weeks pass by. The week went as follows:

·         Day one (Friday): We spent the day in transport getting to Haiti. What strange trip it was. Flights being delayed and a round of “whose stuff is it anyway” with Haiti customs.

·         Day two (Saturday): We played and worshiped with 120 plus kids (over 20 with disabilities).

·         Day three (Sunday): We worshiped the Lord in an eclectic service in which an hour and a half felt like 10 minutes. Afterward, we invited the neighborhood futbol (soccer) teams to come by for the second annual afternoon tournament.

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Day four (Monday): We ventured to love three other orphanages by feeding, watering, clothing, playing and sharing the gospel. Truthfully, we could only get to two because one was on the muddiest road I have ever encountered. While the pastor we were visiting thought our vintage 1970‘s yellow school bus could make it down the road, I wasn’t a fan. I could only see standing in the mud rut pushing the truck out or paying a few thousand Haitian. We did find a way to get him our gifts and give away the greatest of all gifts to the neighborhood boys – an indestructible soccer ball. The day ended with a teammate falling down the stairs.

·         Day five and six (Tuesday & Wednesday): We woke up before 6am and made it to the bus for a 1-2 hour ride to our good friends at Respire Haiti. There we held another soccer tournament for U12/U17 boys. We had 8 total teams and all heard a gospel message before their games. Additionally, we fed and watered over 300 people during the afternoon. It was really quite heartwarming to see the team fan out and meet folks. I believe the team started some great relationships with the community by handing out clothing, food, and water and soccer gear. We gave away over $80,000 in new soccer cleats, balloons (balls), shin guards and cleats. I have never seen a more contented Haitian. I am so grateful to our sponsors and the Chicago soccer clubs. We couldn’t have done this without them.

·         Day seven (Thursday – July 4^th): We are waking up and heading to the beach. It’s another of the rarities the children and the staff at New Life get to enjoy because of the generosity of those on our “soccer” trip. I am so glad we are funding over 120 orphans and 30-40 adults who never go otherwise.

The trip is just about over but really, it has just begun. You see, lives have been changed. The ones we have served here in Haiti and ours. We had 10 newbie’s in the largest team ever for “Soccer Beyond Borders.” The stories from the team during our evening devotions have been inspiring. They are stories of unadulterated love for one’s neighbor – a love that somebody might not expect in the world in which we live. In addition to our “work” in Haiti, the “Soccer Beyond Borders” team decided to take the remainder of the funds raised for the trip to dig a water well for orphanage, purchase nursery items for the infant center, support the New Life rescue center and the amazing outreaches by Respire Haiti.

God is so good and occasionally, when we allow ourselves to make peace with His will, so are we. Hope to see you on Sunday in Oswego. I’ll be the one with the farmer’s tan!

Pastor Coach Bob

Soccer Beyond Borders-Haiti Day Five

Haiti Day Five

                The start of our journey began at 5:15 in the morning when it was still pitch dark.  After making sandwiches and packing all the gear and water, we left New Life with 11 New Life Children and traveled to Respire, Haiti.  The ride was quiet on the bus, but the city of Port-au-Prince was very much alive.  After capturing a few embarrassing photographs of team members sleeping, we arrived!  In order to prepare for the festivities of the day, we had to sort the players’ gear into individual bags to efficiently and effectively distribute without causing chaos.  Each team received 18 of the individual bags and the goalie also received goalie gloves and shirts.  Each coach received a coaching soccer bag with cones and a clipboard.  Each team received a bag of balls, one of the soccer balls was the Mission Ball and the other was the “indestructible” One World Soccer Ball. The tournament to be played consisted of eight total teams, four under 12 boys and four under 17 boys.  Prior to the start of the under 12 and under 17 games, Pastor Bob shared with the players a message from the scriptures, which was written on the Mission Ball Soccer Ball we provided with each team.  The purpose of this was to remind the players and the community why we came to see them and spend time with them: Go and make disciples of all nations.

                The games began with the U-12 teams from the area playing 20 minute halves, 9v9, on half of a field. Will and James held down the sidelines as AR’s as Nick and Pastor Bob were the goal line refs, and Patrick was the head ref for the first two games. Respire and Equip Ruj won their respective games with the score of 1-0 and will meet each other in the final tomorrow. It was very interesting to compare the youth soccer of what we know of in the states with that of what Haitian youth soccer has to offer. They are very skilled on the ball, extremely high intensity, but they fail to understand the concept of spacing, defense, and the fact that high kicks with brand new cleats WILL HURT! In between each game we fed all of the players on each team with rice, beans, pikiliz (spicy coleslaw), and a chicken leg. We also provided each team with water. The next portion of the day consisted of the U-17 games. They played on a full sized field, 11v11, with 40 minute halves. Respire and Equip Orange won 1-0 and 2-1 respectively.

                While the games were being played on the field, relationships with fans and children alike, and moments we will always cherish, were being developed.  Ayla and Mr. Kibler served as human jungle gyms for the children playing with makeshift toys.  For example, one little boy was playing with a “car” he had created by placing four wheels on the sides of a soup can.  Whoever was not involved with the soccer games, spent time entertaining the children and speaking with the locals. Patrick had a special moment with a man named Osmin, who had many questions about the word of Christ that Pastor Bob preached about earlier. He did not understand how playing the game of soccer was living out God’s word. Patrick did a bit of preaching while learning a bit of creole along the way.

                After leaving the fields, we went back to Respire and walked up the mountain to see their property.  Megan took us on a tour of their schools and told us her story about how she came to Haiti and how she came to start her program with Josh.  She also revealed to us that she learned creole after praying to the Lord to help her find a way to communicate with the Haitian people because she was overwhelmed after initially going to Haiti.  Megan and Josh are incredible people and they have expanded their program immensely after starting the program 2 and a half years ago.  The purpose of their program is to save, rescue, and employ restaveks, which are basically child slaves.  There are approximately 500,000 restaveks in Haiti and therefore, this is a major problem she wants to raise awareness about.

                Ready to go back to New Life, we all packed back into the bus for a very loud and joyful bus ride, in contrast to the morning ride. Ate dinner, the meal we were are always looking forward to. Had devotions with the children and shared our special “out of the boat moments” for the day amongst the group. Now trying to mentally prepare for another 5:15am wakeup call tomorrow morning.

Patrick and Nick

Soccer Beyond Borders Day Four

Haiti day 4

Today was pretty adventurous, we have to say… this is Ayla, Megan and Denise reporting in from Haiti!!  We woke up this morning with a few tummy aches with the team… that passed quickly so to speak.  After a scrumptious breakfast of French toast and scrambled eggs we were ready to tackle the day and with that all the bags in the depot.   The plan was to bless three orphanages with supplies, food and clothing.

 After packing the bus, we were on our way!  Driving through the streets of Port Au Prince was and excursion in and of itself.  Loud with honking horns and miles of street vendors, motor scooters and pedestrians to navigate…. Our bus driver was AWESOME!!  We reached our first orphanage and we heard the children’s voices singing to welcome us!  The home of 30 some children was a cement structure with 2 rooms.  One for sleeping and one common room.  The gravel yard provided some shade and seating area for the kids but overall it was very desolate. Though they didn’t have much, they seemed grateful for the little that they had.  We were as delighted to be there as they were to have us.  We started with craft bracelets, bubbles and coloring as well as goodie bags for all the children.  The guys on the team initiated play with the soccer ball and the gals were busy outfitting each girl with a new dress.  We gave the boys soccer uniforms which were sooooo adorably big and thusly very cute!!  After play we fed them lunch of peanut butter sandwiches, a drink and what amounted to cheese puffs (called chicos).  The children’s faces and fingers were all orange! J  Before leaving we prayed over their pastor which caused some tears among our group.  We left them with supplies and smiles.

We moved onto the next orphanage further down the road.  We started this time with lunch during which we all sang and prayed together.  It was particularly moving when one of the children came up and sang by themselves a song they wished to share.  A couple others followed suit!  How beautiful it was!!  Once they were finished eating we brought in their brand new clothes and watched as faces lit up across the room!  Before we left we noted that their supplies were all but gone, so we ended up leaving them a bulk our remaining supplies.  Last but not least, we left them with the mission ball, the one world ball and the New Testament book.

At that point we were getting a little hungry and headed back to New Life for lunch … yum, yum.

We boarded the bus to take our longest journey of the day to an orphanage an hour away.  We were excited and happy given our first two experiences of the morning. Pouring rain accompanied our journey, which at first we thought a blessing to cool us down.  After the hour trip, we were about a mile away and realized after some debate and deliberation by pastor Bob that we could not continue on our way in fear of getting stuck in the mud with a big bus and lots of people!!  Yikes… not expected!!!  We then worked and worked and worked to get the bus turned around on the muddy road!!  It almost seemed impossible given the conditions, but after a half an hour we were on our way!! We dropped the orphanage supplies off at a local law enforcement office to be delivered when the roads were better.  We created quite a scene and attracted many locals, so on the way out we tossed a new soccer ball out the window in their direction which they fought over but we quickly moved away as not to cause a riot!

From there, we stopped at Metal Works – a Haitian art which is garbage tins turned into art work.  This area was a village of shops.  We bought many items and supported the Haitian community.  We made our way back to New Life to spend the remainder of the day with the kids.

What a great day it was!!

Soccer Beyond Borders - Day Three

Haiti Day Three

Day three in Haiti was extremely eventful. Shortly after breakfast our group walked over to the church for morning service. The service began with a traditional song that had the congregation up and clapping. Witnessing the celebratory spirit of the kids and other teams was a powerful way to join with the community, and it illuminated how important God is in the foundation of New Life. Pastor Bob gave the congregation a message about forgiveness and the invited the crowd to share in the peace of Christ.

Following the service, the team gathered together and prepared for the soccer tournament – laying out the donated shoes, socks, and jerseys for the two outside teams, two New Life teams and many other visitors. The event caused a big buzz in the community and there were at least 100 people waiting to come inside and watch.  The energy of the four teams was palpable and by the time the championship game ended, all of teams’ competitive spirits shone through. The passion, vigor, and skill of the Haitian players reminded all of us how much the game of soccer means to the people in this country. Before each team departed we shared the Gospel message with them – sharing New Testament booklets, a soccer ball with the mission statement, and some food for the way home. After the tournament concluded, we shared a meal with the players and had a chance to interact and see how much they appreciated the team’s presence.

After a long day in the hot sun, dinner gave a chance to wind down and share our stories concerning the day’s events. To end our day, we shared some time with the babies from the nursery and played in the park. It was fun to see the kids interact with one another and we all took turns holding them and helping them down the slide. The evidence of a great day in Haiti was seeing the boys interact and smile with each other, enjoying time with the team and enjoying the light summer breeze.

Goodnight! Peace and Blessings to you all!

Sincerely,

Mary Jo, Nicole, and Jason 

A New Perspective-Haiti Day Two

A New Perspective-Day Two

Two Scripture verses summarize my first day in Haiti. During my interactions with the children Jesus’ command regarding the treatment of “the least of these” resonated in my mind. They are so hungry for human touch and our love. It is truly humbling to be here serving them in the name of the Lord. Serving is the operative word for the second verse that comes to mind, “ the sleep of a laborer is sweet”. After a day of working and serving in the heat and humidity of Haiti, I slept like a baby.

                Before arriving, all I had seen were commercials and read others’ experiences about the journey to another country in order to help others in need. It hit me in the face the first day seeing the condition of some of the children. The second day I began to not only see others helping each other, but actually feeling the amount of love in the room, it was inspiring. The most difficult part of communication is the language barrier, and it was upsetting how I could not understand what was going on with one of the children. I then came to realize that laughter does not require a language, and that is what brings us all together.

                Some people tend to think that I am sacrificing things by coming to Haiti, that I am being too generous or heroic. It couldn't be farther from the truth. These kids bless us more than we could ever bless them. There are 120 kids around you who love you at first sight, and you stand there with a single feeble heart. There is no question of who is blessed. Each one of these kids has a broken past, but now it is clear that all they know is love. They exude it with every touch, smile, and word that sounds like gibberish to me. I spent most of the day with the babies. God used these beautiful kids who cannot often even speak to mend my spirit that was broken by the world. I never realized how much the Lord accepts and cares for me until He used these kids to reach out at just the right time. When I first walked into the baby room, a boy who started crawling up to me the moment he saw me and had his arms extended for me to hold him before I got through the gate. He would allow me to put him down without a struggle, unlike many of the other children, but the moment I put him down he had his arms open for me to hold him again. He relentlessly pursued me, but he did it gently and with acceptance. This I believed illustrates how our Heavenly Father pursues us. The most striking thing I have witnessed is how obviously God uses these kids because their hearts are unhindered by the world, like mine is. No matter what condition any child is in, I can’t pity them because when I see them, I see Jesus’ face.

Blessed to be here,

Dave, Val and Abbey

Soccer Beyond Borders Haiti Day 1

All Aboard the Haitian Vacation

After months of preparation, our Haitian Vacation (trademarked by Pat) finally has begun. Twenty three walking traffic cones(our new team shirts) gathered bright and early at O’Hare Airport. We made it smoothly out of Chicago. Ironically, the flight attendant kept saying we were landing in Fort Myers but we were supposed to land in Fort Lauderdale. As it turned out, there were storm clouds hovering above the Fort Lauderdale Airport preventing our scheduled landing. The pilots decided to circle the airport several times, however the storm took its sweet time and we needed to refuel so we had to land at Fort Myers. While in Fort Myers, we received word from Mr. Keefer that American said we would not be making it to Fort Lauderdale in time for our connecting flight to Port-au-Prince, Haiti. This casted a cloud of anxiety over the team of twenty three “Soccer Beyond Borders” missionaries. But have no fear, the Lord is here!
Luckily, we swooped into Fort Lauderdale just in the nick of time. Fortunately, the gate we arrived at happened to be right next to our connecting flight’s departure gate along with an Italian fast food stop. Throughout our travel, our orange shirts were great conversation starters. One couple in particular was with us the whole way, traveling from Bartlett to Haiti for the first time since 1979. When compared to the changes we see after just one year away from Haiti we are excited for the couple to see the changes in their home country after thirty plus years. We shared our past experiences and future plans and wished each other good luck on the rest of our trips. Full of pizza and high hopes, we boarded our plane to Port-au-Prince, Haiti. One of our team members, who shall not be named (LAUREN!), prematurely stated that our trip had been uneventful thus far. Little did we know, we were in for a doozy.
Although we were pleasantly surprised with the drastic improvements at the Port-au-Prince International Airport, the organization did not suffice. As Murphy’s Law states, “Whatever can go wrong, will go wrong.” After collecting all 45 of our duffle bags of donated supplies we ran into trouble at Haitian Customs. Our convoy of carts was making out of the airport, but not before a Customs employee decided to check one of our duffle bags. They started with one and then they wanted to see them all. They would take a bag, empty everything packed in it, inventory it, and then attempt to repack the bag which they did with little success. We were constantly being asked how much we had paid for all the gear and we tell them it was all donated, however anyone could guess that there was a language barrier. The employees were asking us to pay a tariff for all the equipment we were bringing to Haiti. After three hours of this chaos, we called Bill Plaza and Miriam for some help. Eventually, they swooped in and saved the day. Unfortunately, we ended up having to pay a tariff for equipment that was free of charge to us and will be free to all the Haitians we will meet this week.
It has been exciting to experience Haiti for the first, second, or third time depending on the person. The culture shock never fails to shock us and it was cool to see the newbies take it all in the first time. We finally made it to New Life where we were greeted with full smiles and helping hands. Our bus was unpacked in no time! We quickly wolfed down dinner leftovers in order to join the children for movie night. We snuggled up with old and new friends while eating popcorn and enjoying Jack the Giant Slayer. Sadly, it is time for bed but we are excited for the adventures ahead of us this coming week.

Goodnight world, peace and blessings to you all. Port-au-Prince out.

Yours truly,
Lauren, Emily, Austin, and… Jake?

Many Blessings - to You!

Over the last two days a team of ten missionaries visited six orphanages ranging in size from 110 to 25 kids.  Our first days visit started by stopping at a brick building out in the middle of a field about an hour outside of Port au Prince, Haiti.  Twenty four children lived there in a building about the size of most people's garage at home with four adults.  Their house was made of concrete bricks, considered a luxury by most Haitians and a tin roof.  No water for drinking, no electricity and no food in the building, no extra clothes and not a toy to be seen.  They were excited to see us and couldn't wait to color a page out of a coloring book as we handed them each three crayons to keep!  They enjoyed a peanut butter sandwich, fruit drink and snack as we sang worship songs and ended in prayer, reassuring them that they were the precious children of God and he is with them and loves them always.  Our last stop for the day took us to an orphanage with 110 children.  They lived in a two story house close to Port au Prince.  Eighty percent of the children sleep on the floor.  They had no food in their kitchen, no table to sit at or shelves in the kitchen to store any of the pots and pans they cook with. All of these items stacked on the ground.  As we arrived they were praying where their next meal would come from.  After the snack we provided, we left many staples of rice, corn, beans, oil, butter, spaghetti, sauce and fish for them.  We got to spend time reading a story to the kids and singing many worship songs.  We so hope we brought the light of Jesus for just a little while to their lives today!  As we finished day one, heading back along the bumpy roads to the orphanage we are staying at, much silenced filled our vehicle as we all thought about how we could do more for the children we visited today.  The margin of disparity between our lives back home and here is wide.  Wider then most can imagine without visiting this place.  I guess we are here to fill the gap one life at a time!

Day two started by counting our food provisions and gathering our team.  We made a long bumpy journey out into the hills of Port au Prince.  Our first stop was an orphanage of twenty-five kids and this orphanage had a school attached to it where 100 community children attended.  The Pastor that ran this orphanage had posted a beautiful sign thanking us as we entered the building.  He played guitar and sang and had taught all of the children to sing.  They sang five songs for us as we shared a snack with them, colored and bounced balloons around the room that we has brought.  Many children had great skill drawing pictures as well.  This Pastor makes some additional money going from church to church with his children singing and playing guitar.  We left staples for their food pantry, as very little food was stored there before we arrived.  There were many smiles on the children's faces and thankfulness in their hearts when we were there.  We prayed with the children before we left, reminding them that each one of them were important to God and he has a plan for each one of their lives.  Our last stop today was to visit a home of twenty-four children that social services received from the streets of Haiti and the jail.  Most of the children ranged in age from 10-15 and were not what we were expecting.  We were told these children were out of control and fighting with each other regularly.  But what we found were children who now has a purpose in

life.  As the woman responsible for them has shown them love, fed them, clothed them, put a roof over their head and brought three teachers into the home.  One of our team members and our Haitian leader shared the love of God with them and reminded them that God does care about them and loves them.  Also, they are to treat each other with love and each one is a brother or sister to the other.  We reminded them to pray to God daily for all the blessings he has given them in the last few weeks.  Then one of the children got up and shared how thankful he was and another prayed for everyone there.  What a blessing for us to end our two days of feedings in this way.  God always is surprising us!  We went in judging these children and God reminded us that each one of us is a work in progress and only God can change our hearts.

Our team has been blessed beyond measure these last two days and we have been reminded again that God has brought us to Haiti to be his hands and feet.  To share his love with the poor, needy and orphans, just reminding us that we are walking the path he has laid out for us.  Our hope today is that all the people that donated money and have been prayed for us have been blessed by this blog.  Without all of you, the wheel would not be able to turn and to make these feedings happen.  We humbly thank you again!

Renee and Bill Plaza

Many Blessings - Settling In

Well, it has almost been two weeks since Bill and I arrived in Haiti.  As usual, we have been blessed in abundance by the children, resources and more opportunities God has placed in our path.  We are settling in at New Life, Bill's "honey do" list is getting longer and longer and I served the Sunday night supper so the cooks could go home and enjoy what was left of their Sunday with their family.

God has managed to connect us up this week with Water Mission International and we were able to meet and plan out next steps for well drilling in the Pestel area  They are committed to returning with Bill to collect information with the local people of the area to determine next places for drilling.  They also believe water is available in the area and will do everything in their power to make it happen!

Last week we were also able to get food to four orphanages that New Life supports that had run out of food.  This could not have been possible without the help of all who donated for feedings.  Yesterday, a team of eight girls from New Life and three montons visited one of these orphanages to help cook, clean and do laundry for the day.  These girls were the hands and feet of Jesus.  They came back to tell us that the children there had no food before we were able to help them out.  The children were sleeping on dirty floors and some were sleeping on a piece of cardboard being used as a mattress.  Some had no clothes and most clothes that the kids were wearing were dirty.  The older girls shared their experience of the day with all the children of New Life and it was a vivid reminder to them that they need to be thanking God everyday for the blessings He has given them.

Bill and I have gotten to be the hands and feet of Jesus many times this week as well, thanks to our one and only Father!  He has had me running the guesthouse and greeting many new friends and Bill has taken charge of transportation of all vehicles here.  He has given us both a chance to spend much needed time catching up and loving on the children and allowed us time to reunited with our longtime friends Rene, Frantzy and Fedner.  Both of us and mission teams staying here have gotten a chance to do much spring cleaning, readying New Life to be fully booked, 75+, for the month of June.  What a blessing that will be!

Today ended with slip and slide time for all the kids and handicap, meeting the new mate of "Tom" our big lonely Turkey, worship led by a mission team staying with us and all the girls at New Life wishing Miriam and myself a Happy Mothers Day!  I guess we are settling in!  We ask for your continued prayers.  Many blessings on your week ahead.

Bill and Renee Plaza

Clean Water Mission--Filters Delivered

Haiti Clean Water Project

Here is an update on the water filtration systems/clean water project in the Haitian village of Macochan. 

First let me just say WOW!  What an awesome experience we have had so far this last week (and year). 

Secondly, thank you to everyone who was involved in making this vision become a reality. One of our team members, Rene Plaza, recognized a need over a year ago when traveling to this mountain village who at the time was suffering from a Cholera outbreak due to contaminated lake water--the villages only water supply. Rene recognized the problem, researched the solution, and set out on a mission to provide clean water to these people. One year later our team delivered in home water filtration systems to 155 families covering the entire village and providing a means for each family to have clean water. Praise God for His blessings, favor, and provision along the way.

Last week Sunday we arrived in Port au Prince Haiti. On Monday we left for the mountains with a large truck (Haitian tap tap), a pickup truck, and two other four wheel drive vehicles, loaded with supplies and 24 people. We drove for 11 hours over some very rocky uneven roads to arrive at our base camp (the village of Jolie Gilbert). The men slept in the church building the women in various buildings and homes. The team consisted of three doctors, five nurses, a helicopter pilot (who met us there with a chopper from Samaritan Air), and a bunch of others with various backgrounds--everyone with a loving mission heart. 

We held a medical clinic in the village of Macochon on Wednesday and my guess is that we saw everyone from the village and a few from surrounding villages as well. Malnutrition, worms, fungus, scabies, a few serious wounds, one demon possession, several pregnancies, and a few other things as well. It was good for us to meet the villagers and get a feel for the village before we delivered the water filters. 

There was a lot of preparation work done in the village many months prior to our arrival. Seven village leaders had been identified and were given information on the filtration systems and villagers were informed that we would be coming and what we trying to do for them. The village homes were each numbered in paint 1-155 so we could identify each home and each resident. A list of homes and residents was made so we could make sure each home had a filter.

On Thursday morning we drove the large truck as far as we could and began shuttling the water buckets and filters via the four wheel drive vehicles up to the village. There we matched the two 5 gallon buckets and all the appropriate component parts and divided the village people by residence/bucket number. Seven groups of 25 were trained on assembly and use of the water filtration system with the village leaders, a translator, and one of our team members doing the presentation. Sounds easy? Didn’t go quite as planned and we needed to help each family assemble their bucket system. They were appreciative of our help to get it assembled correctly. By the time the distribution and assembly was finished it was time to leave the village.

I left with a hole in my heart because I was not convinced that everyone understood what they were told. We were scheduled for a much needed medical clinic in another village the next day but we felt that a day of followup was very important, so three of us (Bill Plaza, Shawn Mazza, and I) decided that we would go back to Macochan. The vehicles were needed for the clinic so the plan was for the helicopter pilot to fly us in, drop us off, and return to the chopper launch site (mountain soccer field) in less that 12 minutes which was all of the airtime/gas he could spare and still make it back to Port au Prince with the doctors and seriously ill children. He felt this could be done in 9 minutes from start up to shut down. That night, John, the chopper pilot recalculated the air time and felt he was cutting things too close and we would need to find another way to the village. Finally our American brains kicked in and we decided we could walk! This turned out to be the best idea yet as it probably took us 20 minutes to climb the mountain that separated our base camp from the village. We knew it could be done because we had seen some of the same people at our base camp that we saw in the village--they could do it--why did we need vehicles or helicopters? Bill had found one of the village leaders at our base camp and he agreed to take us up the trail to the village. It was fairly steep in some areas, and I am old, and out of shape, but even then we made it in 20 minutes. We were amazed at how close the village was and wondered if we would ever endure the hour long vehicle ride over rocks again.

This turned out to be one of the best days for us as were able to meet one on one with the villagers in their homes and go over with them the proper use of the system. With the help of a village leader and a translator we answered any questions and made sure everyone was set up correctly. It was a very peaceful day in a very peaceful village. Villagers were going about their daily lives tending to their needs--getting water from the lake (about a 20-30 minute hike down the mountain, separating beans and grains from the chaff, drying coffee beans for sale in the market, working the “fields” with machetes and hoes, doing laundry, etc. Many smiles on peoples faces and we felt as though everyone was appreciative of our efforts. There will be follow up by other teams throughout the year to see how things progress and where we can do a better job for the next village.

It was a year long project to provide clean water to a village in need--orchestrated by God--and all honor and glory goes to Him. He inspired the heart of one woman and through her He touched the hearts of hundreds of others and provided a way to share the blessing of clean water that we take for granted every day with a village who’s lives depend on it. God is so good! 

Postcard from Hannah

Days like today give me hope.  Marissa, Jim, and I got the opportunity to go to the beach with the kids and the other American groups staying here at New Life. I was at this beach 2 1/2 years ago when I first came to Haiti. I never thought I would get to see it again. It is one of my top favorite places on earth to be, just behind Lambeau Field.  It was a day filled with laughter, squeals of delight, and lots of splashing. I also got to experience my first jellyfish sting. Unfortunately, Marissa had just gone to the bathroom so she couldn't help me out, but what a friend to offer! But even a sting couldn't ruin the day, it was too perfect. Breathtaking views, awesome food, and the best company I could have asked for.  Getting to see the pure joy on the kids' faces was priceless.

I played mom to a little girl today. I held her in the water, helped her learn to kick and swim, she would go off with her friends and then come back to check that I was still there. We sat on my towel and she went through my bag of stuff and claimed it as her own. We went looking for rocks and she sat on my lap and quietly played when she was ready for some alone time away from all of the kids in the water.  I changed her, held her while she slept, tucked her in at night. For at least one day she had a 'mom.'  Our group came to Haiti this week to be 'parents' to these kids. To try and fill in the gaps they have of being on their own. Love on them, correct them when they are wrong, pick them up when they fall, laugh with them, but most of all help them realize they are loved and worthy of love.

Today, it was mission accomplished.

A Message from Maria

It is our fourth night here in Haiti. I am already dreading the day that we leave. I had the opportunity to spend most of my days here at New Life spending more time with the children. I played soccer with Hannah, Marissa, Jeremy, Vanessa, Wisbens, Gibons, Charles, and a few rotating subs, especially for me since today I feel like I am fighting off a cold/ sinus infection. It felt great to just spend time with the children. I feel that during my last few trips, I was visiting New Life in passing. I was here but not here. I was busy trying to do so many things outside of New Life and not spending enough quality time with the children here. I feel like I learned a lot more about the children these past few days with just spending more time with them.

Today, I changed multiple diapers, got to carry Caleb and put him to bed, played with the babies making fun car noises with the toys, picked up Rosena after having a tantrum, and kissed Daftka's  ouchie on her head. I feel like these are things that often get overlooked- the reassurance after a fall, talking to the babies while changing them, cradling the babies and helping them nap, and playing and making noises with the toys to expand upon their social and play skills. So many thoughts go through my mind such as; what kinds of educational toys can I get sent over for the babies and the toddlers to expand upon their dramatic play skills, who picks them up after they fall, who carries them when they don't feel well, who tucks them into sleep, etc. Then when I start asking myself these questions, I begin to feel sad and feel like I need to come to Haiti more often so I can do those things.

I am hoping that I can come back next year in July and spend more time with the girls. I feel like my departure this time will be a lot harder to do because I had the opportunity to build stronger relationships. For my new year's goal, I am hoping to come back and spend time with the children at New Life. 

Adventures with Jim

Today I went out into the heart of Haiti with an Irishman and his friend, an American student living in Ireland.  They are both from the same church in Dublin staying with Pastor Lionel and dress up as clowns to entertain children in Haitian orphanages.  We were escorted by two Haitians, one of which attends the Academy of Music in Port Au Prince and his friend who chooses to give of his time to local charitable organizations such as "New Life".  For the Irishmen, the mission was very specific..find the "Irish Embassy", an authentic Irish pub in downtown Port Au Prince and see a few new things.  I, however, had no such direction or agenda.  I was told we were in good hands and everything would be fine.  When a Haitian tells you this, something in his eyes makes you believe it without questioning.  You have to be here to know what I mean.  The "Tap-Tap" ride was bumpy and noisy and the streets were filled with cars, motorbikes, people, wares, dogs, dirt and dust. . to imagine coming home without seeing or being in an auto accident after such an experience speaks to the incredible chaotic ballet of movement in the street.  People shouting and honking, some escalated verbal confrontations without ending in physical violence as this American would have imagined such altercations leading to back home.  We visited the Haitian Museum of History and were regaled with the terribly beautiful message of Haitian strength and endurance under the harshest and most inhumane of treatment first as imported slaves and then having to battle against political corruption through the years to be able to claim this land as their own and no one else's'.  After our informative and air-conditioned break from the hustle and bustle we made our way to the Hotel Oloffson which was constructed before the late 1800's.  There, we took in the history and beauty and had lunch. Our dining experience was rich in taste as well as conversation, the subjects of which ranged from racial inequality to debating how long Justin Bieber's fame would last.   An unplanned swim was enjoyed after dining by all of us except the driver and the Haitian musician, who seemed just as content watching us make fools of ourselves laughing and carrying on.  We saw the sign for the Irish Village which prompted us to get off the Tap-Tap but quickly found out it was quite a hike from where we disembarked.  The walk through the streets was even more exciting than the ride.  We walked by dead poultry lying in the street (which was actually for sale, not just mere road kill) and rubble piles still left over from the infamous earthquake of 2010.  People laughed and smiled as we walked by and the Irishman couldn't help to say "Joie Noel" to everyone he made eye contact with while clapping and singing between greetings.  His enthusiasm and outward expressions of joy and comfort loosened any tension I had by the feeling that one wrong move would knock something or someone over or that I myself would be knocked down.  I kept feeling the gentle hand of our Haitian friends on my shoulder as I tended to lag behind and was reminded just as gently to stay together for our safety.  We made our way to the bar, the Irishmen tried to talk the owner into letting them perform their clown routine and were politely denied.  We came, we saw, we left.  At the end of an amazing day, I am confident in the words of Elson, our Haitian friend.. it doesn't matter where we are from, we are all brothers and sisters and have to watch out for each other.  For two Haitian men to take time out of their lives, where working is the most important key to fleshly survival, and be our own personal guides for the day was truly a blessing.  They knew we wanted to see Haiti and they wanted to make sure we saw it without receiving a scratch or anything worse.  What a testimony to how our Lord has taught us to love and treat one another.  I am forever humbled and honored by my new lifelong friends and their willingness to be by our side in a foreign land with foreign culture, language and attitude.  Joie Noel!

Merry Christmas from Marissa

It is the end of our first day back at New Life and it feels like I'm back home. I am falling in love with this place and these kids all over again. I can't even describe the feeling I had when I ran (yes, I actually ran) over to the kids and they remembered me by  name. From the second I hugged each one of them hello, I was already dreading the moment I am going to have to say goodbye again. But, it's only Tuesday so I have a few more days before I have to worry about that:).

I had to keep reminding myself today that it is Christmas because I'm not used to spending it in 80-90 degree weather and without snow. But I couldn't have asked for a more perfect day, and a Christmas I will remember forever. This morning, all the kids at New Life gathered in the church and were each given an individual present by a couple staying here who purchased all of them. Each child's face, whether they were in diapers or 16 years old, lit up when they received their present.

Shortly after the New Life kids opened presents, another orphanage arrived for a Christmas lunch and fun activities to do all day. They were all so thankful, and most of the children were so skinny that I am glad New Life was able to provide them with a good meal. Each of those children were also given a Christmas gift. The amazing thing is that you could've given those kids any kind of gift, and they still would have appreciated it.

I don't know exactly what it is, but I am so happy when I am at New Life. I know part of it could be that I absolutely love kids, but there is something so special about the children and the people here. Even in a country where there is so much hunger and suffering, the faith of the people who I have met is unwavering. They thank God for everything, which has made me realize how much more I need to be thanking Him for every day. Tonight we were all given ice cream, and Sophie put her hands up and thanked God the second she finished her cup. I can honestly say that I have fallen in love with many of these children and I know God has put me here again, only six months later, for a reason.

(And mom, I didn't get sick! Love you so much and Merry Christmas!)

ADVENT- the season of waiting

For Christians, the season of Advent is spent reflecting on and anticipating our Savior's birth. Well, it's supposed to be. I've grown up in the church and have 27 years of Advent seasons under my belt and I  have never fully understood  what we were waiting for.  Jesus had already come, why were we 'waiting' for it? I understood waiting for Christmas. As a kid I understood that real well- Christmas, are you ever going to get here??? And as an adult- Christmas, why are you coming so fast!?!?!?!?! But Jesus had already come. We could just skip the waiting and rejoice in it. (If you couldn't tell I'm not a fan of waiting.) Until this year. My season of advent started in July (Christmas in July!), on a picnic table at New Life Children's Home in Port Au Prince, Haiti. I was in Haiti for my second time and I did not want to go home. Marissa and I were trying to figure out if we could stay just a couple of more days. Lizzie was already talking about next summer and Angie and Maria where figuring out how to coordinate their work schedules and finances - and we hadn't even left yet. That's what Haiti does to you, it grabs a hold of your soul and doesn't let go until it's changed your heart forever. Then an idea was born. Christmas in Haiti. All but Angie were on a school schedule and had at least 2 weeks off. We could do this. We were going to do this. And so the season of waiting began.

The season of Advent isn't just about waiting. It's about preparing. Preparing our hearts to be ready for when Jesus would come. I changed a lot that week in Haiti. One major change was I knew I had to make more of a commitment or just walk away for good. I'm an all or nothing kind of a girl. I had made up my mind that for this next season of my life Haiti was going to get my all. Those changes you feel while you are in Haiti are exciting and inspiring, until you get home. At home you have to actually put those ideas into actions and deal with the consequences of those actions. For me, that meant not moving out of my mom's house. It meant taking on another responsibility of putting together the trip. It meant giving up my nephew's first Christmas and time I usually spend with friends.  It also meant stalking American Airlines for the cheapest flights and a million emails trying to figure out who, what, when, and how we were going to pull this off. I like plans, check lists and things color coded. Haiti does not cooperate with any of those. Our plans have changed a million times and will change a million more. And as I think about it, Mary had a trip to prepare for that first Christmas, while being pregnant with God's son. Planning a trip to Haiti now seems like a walk in the park.

Anticipation. My students know this well. They have been asking and dreaming about Christmas since the first day of school. No joke.  This year I am right there with them. Not for the presents, but for the fact that I can't wait to see Cherley's face or hear Chinaido's laugh or have to change Caleb's diaper. For the first time I think I finally understand what Advent is all about. The waiting, the preparing and the anticipation to see the hand of God at work.  The Jews were waiting to see God's face through the Messiah. My heart is waiting to see God's face through the eyes of the children of Haiti. I'm yearning to experience God's peace and joy through His presence -and maybe get a tan :)

There is still lots to be done, like stuff 100 goody bags for kids, try and fit a car load (literally) of supplies into 5 -50lbs or less bags, get everyone to the airport at 5:00 a.m., get money processed, have an early Christmas with my family and friends, oh and finish up 2 weeks of school with 1st graders who are as antsy as  bugs under a magnify glass. But all of that just brings me one step closer to Haiti, and for that I am truly blessed.

As we wait in anticipation, please pray for  Maria, Marissa, Cindy (my mom!), Jim, and I and our trip to Haiti. Pray that God prepares our hearts to do His will, for safety, and that we make the most of every opportunity to impact others  for Jesus.

Two weeks from today is Christmas, I can't wait!

-Hannah

Haiti Joy and Heartbreak

Patty Meyer 11/1/2012

It’s hard to believe a week has passed since we arrived. In one week we have witnessed the effect s of the hurricane flooding, preparation of bags of food to feed 1,500, and the anguish of seeing the suffering and effects of malnutrition, which took the lives of two little boys here at New Life on Monday and Wednesday. A constant reminder that seems unbelievable that FOOD, FOOD, FOOD is the greatest need and the cause of so much worry, anxiety and many times death. Yesterday we had the opportunity to go outside of New Life into several areas only to find the streets were like a parking lot. I tried not to whine from the back seat of our van as sweat dripped from my face, especially with the hundreds of people walking, who would have loved to have had a ride. 
It could be SO, SO easy to get overwhelmed – and I surely DO during every visit – listenening to the stories of need by nearly everyone you meet. Most stories are the same. “I have no job. I want my children to be able to go to school. I have so little to feed my family.” Or – even those with a job say their income is not sufficient to care for their family and to have food for them every day. EVERYTHING revolves around affording food. 
My joy comes from the time I spend with the kids. My dear Pierre continues to come running when he sees me walking toward the orphanage. YES – I do know that he hopes I brought him a few swigs of the rest of my coke and have a piece of bubble gum in my pocket, but his smile and tight hug around my neck helps take away my anger, disappointment, and frustration that creeps back into my heart and mind several times a day as I experience life here. 
The parts of today that brought the love of Jesus to others was a “store” we set up in the church. We had the girls come to “shop” and from oldest to youngest they came in groups of four. We had panties, socks, hair accessories, an assortment of clothes, purses and of course a piece of candy when they left with their selections. Our display was possible because of the donations of many people. How I thank those who responded to the list on face book and made their desires a reality. Being typical females, it took several of them FOREVER to decide on just the right thing.
The afternoon also ended with proving each employee here at New Life with a small monetary gift to purchase food from Impact For Jesus. I am SO thankful to each of you who responded to the opportunity to help with this need. Just to hear their words of thanksgiving was so humbling. One woman who I so adore shared that when she left her children and came to work this morning, they had no food and nothing to prepare for dinner. She was so excited to go home and surprise them with food. As people thanked Renee and myself I told them it was from many people in the states who care about them. To many I told them it was from God – He answered their prayers and just happened to use us to do it. I am so aware of how humble they are – but yet how humiliating it must be to admit to your life of being so destitute. Then there is ME – I complain at home if I don’t have more than 10 choices when I open the pantry door...
Tonight after devotions Renee and I gave all the kids and nannies a “freezer pop.” I know this probably sounds so goofy – but as I looked around and saw everyone sucking on these things it felt like we were one big family and while the days and nights can be beyond hard – THIS moment – all is good and refreshing.

Renee and I were both at “bug bite limit” so went to our rooms about 8:00 p.m. Renee ended her day (which included a bee sting and another 25 mosquito bites) with a cock roach landing on her arm. Let me just say that they grow them BIG here. I am glad I didn’t witness her experience! 
So – As the day came to an end and I thought about what it held – learning of a death of the little boy, all the stories, all the people in need I went to bed remembering little Pierre at devotions tonight as he sang “Amazing Grace” and I thought it couldn’t have been a sweeter sound. What might tomorrow bring?

Haiti-Huricane Sandy Aftermath 10/26/12

Patty Meyer

10/26/2012

I’m writing from Haiti, yet knowing it will be impossible for you to truly understand what I have experienced today. When we arrived yesterday we learned that because of the rain, there was no school and several of the employees were unable to get to New Life. Our dear friend Frentzy showed us a photo of the river water, whose depth was nearing the top of the bridge. Normally, this same river can have the appearance of a narrow stream, reaching the depth of maybe ones knees and is used by the locals for bathing, washing clothes and by pigs, goats, and an occasional cow, as well. If I was to guess – I would say the bridge is AT LEAST 40 feet above the river bed. Since it was merely drizzling at this point, I had no idea of the conditions around us.

It rained through the night and we woke to more rain. We soon learned that there had been significant flooding, which had already taken the lives of 11 people, with many more anticipated deaths. One of the employees here is in his 30’s and he said he has never witnessed this much rain and flooding.

Realizing there was so much devastation, nine of us ventured out to see if there was anything we could possibly do to help. Near New Life is a tent city which has been there for going on THREE YEARS. That was our first stop. As we drove up we could see pools of water and mud. There were probably 40 children mingling around – some half dressed, most without shoes. The man “in charge” came forward and explained that most of the tents had been flooded or filled with mud and people were in terrible need. With his permission, he graciously walked us around just the front of the “city” and we peered into tents, only to see all these people have to call their own was sitting in mud. The scene that sticks in my mind is looking into a small tent to find a young mother sitting on an upside down bucket holding a 6 week old baby. She stared back at me with dead pan eyes, not returning the smile I offered to her. Then she began shaking her head back and forth and her expression did not change. Someone tell me HOW are they able to withstand one tragedy after another? All I could do was say, “Jesus loves you.” and look back at her with the most caring expression I could offer, yet knowing she had no idea what I was saying.

As we continued, a wonderful Haitian man who was leading me, tried to keep a step ahead of me as he flung pieces of broken cement or a rock for me to step on so I didn’t slide or sink in the mud. Even without the rain, without the mud these tents would bring you to tears to look inside – but to see them with standing water and mud – was just about more than I could look at. We learned there are 133 families who live here, which includes 500 children! None of these families can afford to send their children to school. So – everyday is spent in the confines of these premises, with one tent right after the next. We promised the people that we would be returning later in the day with food. FOOD being their number one request.

As we continued down the main road, which is normally at a dead stop because of all the traffic, we found the traffic very light and where there would normally be people crowded on the sidewalks selling their wares – there was no one.

We went down a side street/mud road and found an area in even greater need. We learned 10 BRICK houses had already been washed away and a man with his pants rolled up to his knees was throwing bucket after bucket of water out of his house into the street that already held about five inches of water, which would soon rush back into his home. In this area, people were standing outside of their home – some in knee deep water. You could see their few belonging were all stacked in various ways to keep them from sitting in water. Without a doubt, the few articles of clothing they owned were surely wet.

Let me fast forward our day to share that by mid afternoon there were about 20 people here at New Life making up bags of rice, beans, spaghetti, cooking oil, and sardines which were then delivered to the tent city families, as promised. They were of course beyond thrilled to have the food. Wonderful yes – but what about food two days from now?

While that gesture served as a glimmer of light in all this darkness, I have to admit that as it CONTINUES to rain and now that darkness has settled in – I sit here wondering what are these thousands, upon thousands of people in this country doing? I had a nice dinner of chicken. I am sitting here with electricity – they have NONE. I have a suitcase filled with clothes, more than they would probably EVER have, AND they are DRY. I am having one of those times where I don’t understand the disparity – yet again. (GUN FIRE JUST WENT OFF! Another sound you get used to…) As I said in the beginning of this writing – I don’t know if you can even grasp what I am sharing to the level that it exists. What do we do? We do what we can with what we have to those we can. Quite truthfully – this is so overwhelming that it leaves you feeling like there is nothing you can do and it’s paralyzing. But at the same time – WE HAVE TO DO SOMETHING! I am going to assume that this hasn’t even made the news in the states. Or maybe it received a 10 second clip showing people up to their waist in water with all they own on top of their head. Millions of people MIGHT actually think – “Wow – that’s awful.” But the truth is – people are drowning, canals have overflowed and sewer water is running down people’s streets and into their homes. There is a HORRIBLE food and clean water shortage and it stands to reason that cholera cases will sky rocket.

IF this touches you and you would like to help – 100% of your contribution will be used to buy food and clean water for those we are able to help. By me being here, I encourage you to contact Jim, my husband at jmeyer9544@aol.com for specific instructions. For me to come home in two weeks and THEN share this emergency would be irresponsible of me. I send this offer to you to be part of a humanitarian effort so together we can do SOMETHING – it will NEVER be enough…but it WILL matter to those who receive it. I’ve only been here a bit over 24 hours and my chest aches for these innocent people. May the sun shine tomorrow.