The transition Program is a unique program that empowers young people and adults to develop vocational skills that can translate into income and, eventually, a career. Participants learn a trade, Life Skills (how to budget, shop, save, etc.), and partake in daily Bible studies. The goal is to prepare young people to not just survive but to thrive -- independently -- in the Western Hemisphere's poorest country.
In Haiti, where unemployment is 80%, a person cannot count on finding a job, regardless of skills and education. Most must create their own job.
Some of the businesses the program has launched include:
Woodworking - Currently the number one profit-generating business in the program, this unique furniture making/carpentry business continues to produce items that are being purchased by leading Haitian businesses, NGOs and individuals.
Sewing - The sewing business teaches sewing skills and produces products that are sold in Haiti. We recently received a donation of 1,300 pounds of fabric from Christian Aid Ministries and an embroidery machine was also recently donated.
Jewelry - We are still making the beaded jewelry (made from cereal boxes) but we are now moving into newer, more contemporary creative jewelry designs incorporating local Haitian items (shells, rocks, etc.). Christa Gibler, interning from Reality L.A. Church, has been working with the girls on the new designs.
Weaving - Linda Bohlinger, a visiting missions team member, brought in a small loom to teach our girls to weave and ended up launching a new business for three needy Port-au-Prince women. Producing quality scarves, purses and accessories, this micro-business is providing hope and income.
Screen Printing - Meeting a strong demand for silk screened items, including T-Shirts, school uniforms, hats, purses, etc., the Lighthouse screen printing business continues to grow.
IT Services - The transition program has a computer room that is currently being used for Internet research and graphic design. In the near future, it will hopefully expand to include education (French and English software courses and online video conferencing classes), research, database, word processing, software development, networking training and more.
Bakery - The kitchen at the trans house has been converted to allow for increased bakery production. Funds have also been received to purchase a convection oven. Currently, the bakery supplies snacks to a nearby school and wants to expand to grocery stores, home deliveries of bread and other fresh baked goods.
Agribusiness - A honey bee business is one of the newest micro-businesses at the transition house. Also, an egg business is the process of development. Junior Bataille will be overseeing these new ventures.
The Child Hope Transition Program is a tremendous program that is making significant inroads in creating jobs and empowering previously homeless children with opportunities and hope for the future. But, as one can imagine, the challenges are great and the needs are many. Here are a few of our needs to lift up in prayer:
Matching Grant - Half of the funds needed have been donated to purchase a convection oven for the baking business. We currently need an additional $ 1,200.
We also have a need for volunteers.
Instructors/Mentors - People with specific experience in the previously described businesses are needed to help train students in each skill area. People who can volunteer in Haiti for one week, 3-6 months or a year would be greatly appreciated.
Business Coaches - We are interested in individuals who have experience starting and running businesses, writing business plans and managing businesses. One week, 3-6 months or a year would be greatly appreciated.
Office Manager - Someone who has office administrative skills who would like to help manage transition program operations, bookkeeping, orders, invoices, collection, etc. would be a gigantic value.
If you are interested in helping out or contributing in some way to the transition program, contact us at info@childhope.org.
