Fellow parishioner Louise Dansereau, along with Oblate Sister Berthe O’Reilly, will be in Haiti from February 4 to March 18, 2020. This is their third visit to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Orphanage.
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Orphanage is located on 14 acres (surrounded by brick fence) near Cape-Haitian in the northern part of Haiti. The complex includes an orphanage, a school for 300 children, a medical clinic, a library and the Sisters’ residence. Haitian Diocesan priest and founder, Father Andre Sylvestre, hopes the orphanage will eventually sustain itself so there is cattle for milk and meat, and a garden for fruits and vegetables.
The orphanage is a home for 18 boys and 19 girls ranging in age from 4 to 16. Some of their parents died in the earthquake while others died from respiratory or diarrheal diseases, HIV/AIDS or violence.
While there, Louise and Berthe help the children with their studies giving special attention to those who need extra help. They also organize educational activities using the donated supplies such as puzzles, games, French books and play dough.
Louise wishes to thank all those who have donated items and funds for the orphanage. All monetary donations are given to Father Andre for the well-being of the children. Louise and Berthe pay all their own expenses – airfare, luggage, room and board.
Louise said, “Father Andre tells us that the love we give the children is worth $1 million…we are there as a presence, listening to their stories, giving attention and encouragement in their way of life so that their hearts are filled with joy and happiness”.
Our prayers are with Louise and Berthe for a successful trip and a safe return.
"Mark whatever you do for the least of my brothers, so you do onto me" Matthew 25:46.
