As the media focuses on the violence in Port-Au-Prince and surrounding areas, and as the Haitian population grows increasingly skeptical about the effectiveness of the multi-national police force, we at Rayjon wanted to offer a supplementary perspective on life in Haiti.

In Cap-Haïtien, a city known for its historic charm, many displaced people from the Port-Au-Prince region are finding solace and a renewed sense of community. This northern port city has become a beacon of peace, offering refuge and support to those who have been uprooted by crisis.  We have seen the direct impact of Cap as a refuge at our partner center C-New-C.The Nutrition programs have seen an increase of demand as internally displaced Haitians arrive and need support. Cap is also an important port location to allow the import of food and other supplies while the port in Port-Au-Price remains a dangerous option.

Further south, St. Marc stands as another testament to Haiti's enduring spirit. Being in the mountains and more difficult to reach from the capital, it remains internally peaceful. However, the roads between St. Marc and other surrounding regions remain largely impassible causing issues for many market people unable to access other towns to sell their goods. However, the community continues push for growth. RSCH in St. Marc has been able to continue with programs, although overcoming newfound barriers from the nation’s instability. As breadfruit comes into season, the Women’s Federation of St. Marc (FEFEH) has begun to process and expand their efforts to begin to make breadfruit flour in the community. This flour is a representation of how St. Marc residents continue to work to find ways to foster an environment where hope can flourish, together.

Both Cap-Haïtien and St. Marc stand as examples of resilience and humanity, showing that even amid ongoing challenges, there are places where efforts for compassion and support still make a significant impact