Haitian Connection has been operating an after-school program for several years. The children and their parents are extremely grateful for the opportunity to participate in this program. There is a certain prestige associated with having lessons after school, and these children of poor and often not very literate parents would otherwise not have access to extra lessons.
We have a dedicated paid staff of three adults who all have a background in teaching.
The kids often get quite a bit of homework, and having a quiet and safe space to do the work has proven to be beneficial. The children do their own homework, but our staff helps them understand and figure things out for themselves. With a long waiting list of other hopeful participants, we are quite strict with regard to attendance and behavior, expecting the children to be committed and to show up on time.
Even when the schools are not functioning because of insecurity, the after-school program is always in session. Currently, about 25 students attend the after-school program regularly. In the beginning of 2025, school was closed due to continuing and increased violence. Our after-school program filled a gap for our students who came diligently to the program 5 days a week. The school year ending in July 2026 closed with success. All of our 9th graders who participated for the past year completed their state exam successfully!
Another way that we support education is paying the teachers’ salaries at an elementary school (through grade 6) in Deschamps. With more funding, we could do more.
Haitian Connection 