Dear Love O Village,

Love O has been grappling with a serious challenge recently. The multiple crises in Haiti over the past three years have resulted in escalation of gangs as many young men seek means of survival. Gangs have drifted from the capital to “camp out” in Love O’s hometown, Croix des Bouquets – turning a calm, safe, suburb into a danger zone. Schools are businesses are closed, transportation is precarious, and residents have left their homes to avoid risks.

So we had a decision to make… tough it out and pray the Love O family remains safe despite a declining situation, or relocate temporarily until the gang presence deescalates. While not ideal, the decision was obvious – the children’s safety is our top priority.

Here is where things stand:

• Last week, we moved Love O to a temporary rental in a safe Port-Au-Prince neighborhood (below).
• We will identify nearby schools so the children can finally resume studies after the holidays.
• The Dream House will be maintained while the family is away (gangs are seeking money, not property.)

Giving Up is Not an Option