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Join us for a fun, family-friendly 3.23 mile run/walk to raise money for the Haiti 323 Project's sewing programs.
When: The month of April 2020
Where: Anywhere! This is a virtual race. You complete the run/walk in your favorite location. Be sure to practice social distancing!
Distance: 3.23 miles (in honor of our name, which is a reference to Colossians 3:23).
Cost: $25
Registration Includes: Race day t-shirt and handmade headband made by the Haiti 323 Project sewing students
The past couple of months have been wonderful for the sewing programs. The students have been learning how to make a variety of men's and women's shirts, and they are doing a fantastic job! We have some real designers in the classes. Just look at all of the creative touches they add to their clothes. We couldn't be more proud of what they have accomplished.
I'm very sad to share that Haiti has it's first two confirmed cases of the Coronavirus. Thankfully, the President of Haiti took swift action and closed the borders, schools, and churches. Our sewing schools are now closed until further notice.
President Jovenel Moïse also implemented "social distancing" and a curfew for the country. As you know, Haiti does not have the infrastructure to support large-scale health crises. We are so fortunate in the U.S. to have our healthcare heroes, and so many others from a variety of industries, bravely standing on the front lines to serve the public and defeat the virus.
Unfortunately, that is not the case in Haiti. Many of the Haitian medical professionals have already fled the country, which leaves Haiti in an even more vulnerable situation.
Many of the students and teachers have told me that they are praying for our country, because they heard about our situation here in the United States. Please now pray for them, their country, and their leaders.
During these challenging times, it is important to remember that while we don't know what the future holds, we know the One who holds the future. The Lord is still in control, and we can place our hope and trust in Him.
Gracious and merciful Lord, You know all things and nothing is a surprise to You. Please answer the cry of the nations as we all cry out to you to stop the spread of the Coronavirus. We ask for healing for those who have been infected, and protection for all people, especially the most vulnerable among us. Please give wisdom and discernment to leaders of every nation, as they guide their people through this pandemic. Let us, the Church, remember to shine our light in the midst of this darkness so that Your name will be forever glorified. We ask this in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.
Stay safe friends,
Michelle Smith
Founder & Director
It’s been an incredibly hard year for Haiti. Political and civil unrest, fuel shortages, and inflation are just a few things that have plagued the Haitians this year. A few months ago, our Port-de-Paix sewing school had to close for several weeks due to civil unrest around the city. About the same time, the Mole St. Nicolas electric company significantly reduced their power supply, which meant the sewing school didn't have power so the majority of the machines didn't work. Sadly, we also had to cancel our annual mission trip due to the civil unrest.
So many things.
But the Lord....He was faithful, and He carried us through.
Despite all of the challenges, 2019 turned out to be the best year yet for the ministry. So today we want to recognize some of the great things the Lord did in 2019:
The students made beautiful outfits for orphans and other children in their communities. For many, it was the first new outfit they've ever received.
The students learned how to make a variety of dresses, and they also started learning how to make boys' and mens' clothes.
We were able to purchase 8 pedal sewing machines, which don't require electricity, for the Mole St. Nicolas class.
Several students made and sold school uniforms this year. School uniforms are big business in Haiti.
A generous couple donated office space to house all of our sewing supplies donations.
People from across the U.S. donated fabric and sewing supplies. So much was donated that we were able to send two crates of supplies this year, one for each class.
We had a record-breaking Give for Good Louisville - raising $11,172.69 in a single day.
We were able to expand our staff by adding a Haitian Director to help oversee both schools. Also, no one was laid off, and all salaries were paid on-time each month, including the Christmas bonuses. This is something to celebrate, because unfortunately, many ministries in Haiti had to lay off staff this year.
For the first time ever, we were able to host Christmas parties and buy presents for both schools.
Thank you again for your continued support of the sewing students, and for following their journeys. As a small ministry, your donations go straight to the field and make a real difference in the lives of the sewing students.
On behalf of our students and staff, we wish you and your family a very Happy New Year! We'll see you again in 2020.
Here's some pictures of the students (and some children) either modeling or holding their newest creations. We might have some future fashion designers in this group!
Interested in making a year-end gift? We have 17 students who currently need sponsors.
When you make a one-time or monthly sponsorship of $15 or $30, you give a student like Manoucheka the opportunity to learn how to sew. This valuable trade will open doors and change their life, their family's lives, and their community.
If you'd like to make opportunity possible for students in 2020, please join us as a one-time or monthly sponsor.
