I’ve been working at Real Hope for Haiti (RHFH) for a while now. Initially, I used to help out part-time whenever RHFH had extra work that needed to be done. I would assist with cleaning or doing odd jobs. Now, I am in charge of making akamil, a nutritious food used for moderately malnourished children and those in the Rescue Center.

Both of my parents are still alive, and I have three brothers and three sisters. I also have one child, and I live with my parents in a four-room home made of rocks and cement, covered with a tin roof. Living in Cazale, a peaceful and close-knit community, has its challenges, but it also has its unique beauty and tranquility.

In my role, I purchase the necessary ingredients to make the akamil—beans, corn, and millet. Every week, I travel to a village about 30 minutes away to buy these items in bulk and transport them back to the clinic. Several days a week, I work with a mill (grinder) to process all the ingredients into a fine powder. After grinding, I weigh and portion them into daily amounts. I then bag these portions and prepare enough for a month to distribute at the clinic. This process requires careful planning and attention to detail, ensuring that the children receive the proper nutrition they need to thrive.

I love this work because I feel like I am playing a part in helping sick children. Knowing that the akamil I prepare contributes to their recovery and well-being is incredibly fulfilling. I have seen firsthand the positive impact it has on their health and development. Besides making akamil, I also help distribute food from the storage room every morning. I bag up laundry soap for the wash teams and package beans and rice for the food box program. Occasionally, I fill in for the men at the gate, letting people in and out.

Each day at RHFH brings new challenges and rewards. The sense of community among the staff and the gratitude from the families we help make every effort worthwhile. This job is very important to me. It allows me to take care of myself and my child, which brings me joy. I am also able to support my family and friends. The stability this job provides has enabled me to contribute to my family’s well-being and participate more actively in my community.

Living in Cazale is a blessing; it is a peaceful area. Despite the insecurity and economic difficulties in Haiti, our village is peaceful. The natural beauty of the area, with its rivers and lush vegetation, offers a serene backdrop to our daily lives. I am grateful for RHFH and the clinic, as they help many people in the community. Their efforts go beyond medical care; they foster hope and resilience among the people they serve.

I am thankful for the opportunities I have had to make a difference. I ask for your prayers that I may have a home of my own one day and get married so that my family can live together. Achieving this would bring joy and stability to our lives.

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