Elderly Village
The young are not the only "at risk" population in Haiti. There are a number of elderly people who are homeless and have no family to take care of them -- they are our elderly "orphans".
A project to build housing for these individuals was begun in 2012. The plan is to build 20 two-room houses in all, each containing a bed, dresser and wash stand. The homes will be occupied by a single elderly person or an elderly married couple. Each house has a porch for the residents to sit and visit with their neighbors. So far, 10 houses have been completed. In addition, a kitchen, latrine and a well for potable water have been built. A full-time cook and nighttime security are also provided. In addition, there will be a food storage building and a small clinic. Food and medical care (the Tovar Clinic is a 10-minute walk away) are provided free of charge. Funding for this project was donated to The Ford Foundation by the Strain Foundation (a private family foundation) and is being built by members of the Grison-Garde community (creating jobs). All housing and services are being provided to the elderly at no cost. The project is overseen by the same committee of elders who have created and maintained the orphanage and school. |
At a Glance
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