In our work at Ewo, we often refer to giving our friends in Bayonnais a “hand up, not a hand out.” We are focused on Development (a hand up) versus Relief (a hand out) because we feel strongly that they are two very distinct ways of helping. Have you ever wondered what that means?
Relief can often focus on times of crisis – a natural disaster, political turmoil, disease, famine, etc. For instance, in 2010, when both an earthquake devastated Haiti and then there was a cholera outbreak, we sent help. Frequently, when food is scarce or too expensive, we partner with our sister nonprofit Friends Empowering Haiti to help raise funds for Food. But this is not our primary way to support Bayonnais.
Because at its core, these sorts of relief efforts are only short-term solutions. For our teams both here in Charlotte and in Bayonnais, we are in the development business. Why?
We are committed to helping grow long-term solutions for our friends in Bayonnais. Studies have shown that continuous relief efforts inhibit the community’s ability to develop self sufficiency and independence. We are making heroes in Haiti. A hero is defined as someone who has special abilities, achievements, or personal qualities and is regarded as a role model. Making heroes in Haiti is not a short-term solution. It is empowering students with means to change their world.
Ewo exists because we believe the next generation will save Haiti. Education is an incredibly important part of why we believe this. Haiti is the poorest country in the Western hemisphere. With 10 million people, 80% live in poverty. Eight out of 100 children die before their 5th birthday. Only 22% of all eligible children in Haiti enroll in secondary school. Haiti’s literacy rate is just 50% due to limited education options. School fees are so high most families cannot afford to enroll their children. Without building relationships, efforts to help Haiti are fleeting. The cycle of poverty continues from generation to generation.
That’s where YOU can help. Through Education and Entrepreneurship, Ewo can partner with YOU and our friends in Bayonnais to help positively impact this community – help develop it – not just today and tomorrow, but for years to come.
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