To Dream of An Education: Schools For Haiti

by Beth Gardiner 

     Schools for Haiti is an organization supporting almost one thousand students in four schools, four principals, over thirty teachers, two cooks, several aids and helpers, security guards, and directors in Haiti. These numbers are only increasing as Schools for Haiti is making a bigger difference in the lives of Haitian people.

     Schools for Haiti has been working in the Mirabalais area of Haiti since 2004. It was started by a Cassville man named Len Demert who dedicated his life to the orphans and the people of Haiti. After seeing the conditions they were living in during his trip to Haiti, Demert decided it would be his mission to provide education to better the lives of the children there. Many children in Haiti cannot afford the tuition for school or only attend when they can pay for tuition. Schools for Haiti has had a mission of providing free education to the poorest children. Since Demert’s passing, his family has continued on his legacy of helping orphans receive education. These kids now have a better hope for the future.

     Last summer Schools for Haiti raised over $20,000 to provide school books for Haiti. This summer they have the same goal of raising $20,000. The goal this year isn’t just books, but includes playgrounds, bikes, a kitchen/cafeteria, dormitory doors, and library books. Schools for Haiti can’t do this on their own, and everyone has the opportunity to help!

     How can you help? Great question! With spring coming that will mean new shoes for your sports, the latest sandals, and a lot of old shoes just sitting in your closet. Don’t let them say there any longer! Schools for Haiti is collecting any type of gently worn footwear. Shoes will be collected during April, May, and June. The shoes will then be given to any organization that gives Schools for Haiti money for the shoes. The goal is to collect 400 bags of 25 pairs of schools. That’s 10,000 pairs of shoes! They need your help! Be listening for ways to donate shoes at PHS, and please contact Beth Gardiner if you have any questions.