As turmoil in Haiti continues to grow, Back2Back staff seek creative solutions to offer ongoing, holistic care. Earlier this year, to offer respite to the Hope House Parents, site staff hosted a retreat for Hope Program students.

The theme was My life, my story, shaped by my dreams and perseverance. Students were encouraged to focus on hope and what they can control in the midst of challenging circumstances. A key part of the time together was to remind each student to keep dreaming.

Each day started and ended with prayer and worship. They were offered training workshops and sessions to learn different artisan skills like paper making and cloth bags each day. The afternoons were set aside for recreational time like swimming and soccer matches. The Haiti staff team were all hands on deck, assisting with meals, sessions, and activities. This time of rest and play is key for both students and their house parents, especially in the face of closures, changes, and moves in response to Haiti’s unrest.

The Hope Education Program also recently welcomed three new students! One young man is in his final year of high school and two are awaiting results of their state exams in order to apply for higher education. As these three young adults adjust to new living spaces and family environments, they are welcomed with love and excitement from their Hope families. The parents held welcoming ceremonies and a dinner; together, Hope parents and students are learning to navigate family relationships, how to be a good neighbor in a wider community, and to offer and receive respect.

As three new young adults make their way in this fresh chapter, Back2Back asks for your prayer – that they would feel secure to learn and thrive, that they would understand the immense support behind each of them, and that opportunities before them are theirs for the taking.