After 8 years going public with the vision of Open Doorways, we are able to share with you the good news the home is complete and our first children were welcomed on November 15th. Three girls between the ages of 5 – 6 are now part of the Open Doorways family. This is a NEW beginning for them and for other children as we gradually welcome more girls and boys to the home built for a family of 30.
Frazimene, Nagella & Christlene (left to right)
It is with gratefulness and humility we share these news with you as it is only with God’s grace and the hearts of supporters who have journeyed alongside us that have brought to reality the vision of bringing love and hope for a brighter future to some of Haiti’s children struggling with poverty. The children at Open Doorways will be fed, clothed, given medical care, an education and spiritual growth.
We also want to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of our project coordinator in Haiti as well as the local men and women hired to build the home and the surrounding security wall - all done by hand. Local crafts people built the iron gate, stair railing and bedframes as well as the wooden tables and chairs. This has brought a positive economic impact on the community of Deschapelles, where the home is built (about a 2-hour drive north of Port-au-Prince).
Sponsorship and Donations
With an estimated annual cost of $24,000 sponsorship funds are now required for the on-going care of the children, maintenance of the home and staff wages. We have funds in place but only for a few children. In time, we will also need to look at purchasing a vehicle.
Would you consider sponsorship support with either a one-time donation or a monthly donation of $25, $50 or other amount of your choice for a one-year commitment? Donations can also be made “in Memory” of a loved one (or) “in lieu of a gift” where the recipient receives the official tax receipt. Please contact us if you’d like more information on these options.
We accept cheques payable to Open Doorways Orphanage Inc. as well as post-dated cheques for monthly sponsorship. Donations can also be made on-line through Paypal. Canadian donations over $10.00 are issued official tax receipts.
Sisters of the Holy Rock Fundraising Concert
Blessings of thanks are extended to the “Sisters” for their friendship and wonderful afternoon of heart-warming entertainment and also to EVERYONE who helped with the event and attended the concert. A wonderful sum of $2,517.97 was raised.
Our thanks to Riley and Sarah Enns
Many of you have been asking about the House Parents position that was to be filled by Riley and Sarah. Plans have changed and we offer our thanks to this young couple for working hard in raising funds and expanding our vision during their 3½ months of employment with us. They have a servant heart and are exemplary in their commitment to the poor and marginalized. Let’s keep them in our prayers for a new opportunity to serve in Haiti.
Message from our Volunteer Board of Directors
May God’s richest Blessings be with you and your loved ones throughout Christmas and the New Year 2012.
Thank you for journeying with us and for “Working Together With Love”
Sharon (President), Breanne (Vice-President), Lilianne (Secretary), Breanna (Treasurer), Christine, Mel, Dorothy, Heather, Joan, Benjamin and Diane