How COVID-19 is Affecting Our Work in Haiti

Despite the rise of COVID-19 cases in Haiti, social distancing is near impossible. At this time, John Hopkins University reports 7,146 cases in Haiti, though that number is likely low due to a lack of testing. 

The kids and staff at EBAC, IDADEE, and New Vision Children's Home have quarantined as best as possible, sending a few people to gather food and supplies as seldom as possible. Due to these efforts and by God's grace, none of the children at EBAC, IDADEE, or New Vision Children's Homes have contracted COVID-19. 

All through this pandemic, health officials have reminded the world about the importance of proper handwashing and sanitation. We're incredibly thankful for our strategic partnership with WaterMission, who has provided safe water for all three children's homes, CHIDA, and the IDADEE community. 

Dr. Wislyn in front of the CHIDA Hospital

Dr. Wislyn, our Medical Director and the Director of the CHIDA Hospital, reports that CHIDA has seen seven cases of COVID-19 confirmed by Haiti's National Lab, along with numerous probable cases that went untested due to a lack of tests. Due to the nationwide shortage of tests, and ventilators, CHIDA is unable to care for COVID-19 patients. When someone showing symptoms of COVID-19 arrives at the hospital, a doctor evaluates them, and if necessary, CHIDA staff transfers them to the nearby hospital in Milot, where they receive care.

Through our strategic partnerships, we've been able to send a container of much needed medical supplies to CHIDA as well as a container of food to IDADEE to be distributed.

Coronavirus Response

In light of the recommendations from our state and local leaders regarding large gatherings and COVID-19/Coronavirus, we have made the decision to postpone Spring Session and the Dream Team happy hour event until we feel that we can safely and responsibly host these events. 

We know that this is likely disappointing, yet expected news.

We want to make sure that we preserve everyone’s health and safety in these unique times, and would like to humbly suggest three things.

• Most importantly, we urge you to draw near to God. It’s easy to listen to the current news and feel anxious, fearful, and even hopeless at times. We urge you to remember that our ultimate hope is in Jesus, especially in times of trial. We can take it all to Him and trust that He is good. 

• Secondly, we want to remind you to treat each other well. As Fred Rogers reminds us, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.”

• Last and not least, we urge you to research and follow the CDC guidelines and listen to the recommendations of local, state, and national officials. The CDC has published coronavirus resources that are available at this link.

We believe that Spring Session and the content at the event are important, so we are currently working through our options regarding rescheduling, and/or delivering that content online. We will share more information soon. Please don’t hesitate to let us know if you have any questions or concerns.

We are thankful for each of you, and as we often say in our office, “We are in this adventure together.”

- PKF Team