How do you cope when your circumstances become overwhelming? How do the children and families in the EcoVillages find courage to continue? It’s hard for us to comprehend how they are dealing with the forces against them as Haiti struggles with political, economic, and environmental realities that seriously challenge every aspect of daily life.
For the EcoVillage community, political instability means living in uncertainty and fear. While our school provides a sense of safety and continuity for the children, the broader environment remains oppressive. Government support for essential services, such as police, education and healthcare are either underfunded or unavailable.
Inflation is soaring, and the value of the national currency has been steadily declining. These economic difficulties result in high prices for basic needs, including food, fuel, and school supplies.
Many families in the EcoVillages struggle to afford daily necessities. Despite these hardships, the EcoVillage School has continued to operate thanks to the unwavering commitment of our teachers, partners, and supporters. The community faces the challenge of sustaining these efforts amidst ongoing economic difficulties.
Deforestation, soil erosion, and water scarcity are rampant due to unsustainable farming practices, natural disasters, and lack of environmental regulations. A recent report highlighted how climate change and environmental damage continue to threaten the country's fragile ecosystem, making it harder for communities to thrive.
In the EcoVillages, water scarcity impacts both daily living and agricultural activities, which the families depend on for their livelihood. Unpredictable weather patterns, such as droughts and heavy rains, also threaten crops, further straining the community's food security and the ability of the people to earn income.
UNICEF reports over 900 schools have closed with more than 150,000 students being displaced. Families are fleeing the violence in search of safety and hope.