By 
This Haitian Heritage Month, we honor the enduring strength, creativity and unshakable spirit of Haitians. Local leaders, grassroots organizations and everyday citizens are driving bold, community-led efforts to create lasting change for children and families throughout the country.
A shining example of these efforts is the Hope on a String initiative, which uses music, arts and storytelling to empower youth and amplify local voices. Another is the transformative work of Fonkoze’s Chemen Lavi Miyò (CLM) program, which helps Haitian families rise out of poverty by providing comprehensive support and guidance. Both illustrate how Haitian communities are charting their own paths forward through culture, solidarity and determination.
“I’m reminded every day that hope is not absent in Haiti—it lives in the courageous individuals and organizations building “Pockets of Hope” across the country.”
– Ryan Jiha, W.K. Kellogg Foundation program officer
In a powerful speech to the W.K. Kellogg Foundation staff, Program Officer Ryan Jiha, who leads the health equity work in Haiti, reflected on this unwavering spirit, reminding us that the hope and strength of Haiti lives in its people. “Even in the midst of crisis, life goes on in Haiti,” Jiha said. “People are still getting sick, still delivering babies. Children still need to go to school. Small businesses still open their doors each morning. And while the need for humanitarian assistance is enormous, what inspires me most is that there are incredible people on the ground, willing and able to help…They just need our support.”
Hope is not an abstract ideal in Haiti, but a living force carried by those working daily to build a better future. As we honor Haitian Heritage Month, may we continue to learn from the people of Haiti whose culture, history and dignity are an inspiration to us all.
Explore more
- Witness espwa in action in this captivating music video featuring Haitian musicians, created by our grantee Fonkoze. It’s a joyful, urgent celebration of what’s possible when communities come together to lift up one another.
- Hope on a String video
- Read this post and listen to an audio documentary highlighting the history and music of Haiti.
Comments