Haiti Trip Report – September 2018
Jeremy just returned from a highly successful trip to Phaeton to launch the Building Project for TCI’s Noah’s Ark School. The initial phase consists of a new 6 classroom building, with new latrines and a dining pavilion to follow.
The current facilities are woefully inadequate with two grades in a tent, one in the kitchen storeroom, and three in badly undersized rooms. This project will greatly enhance the quality of life for over a hundred children and the entire community, providing them with hope and the tools for a brighter future.
The final details of the construction project were resolved. The exact building location was properly staked out, final design elements were confirmed, and the responsibilities for each member of the Building Team were agreed upon. Our in-country director, Elmond Jean, will supervise the project with daily oversight by Patrick LaCombe, the School Principal. Arrangements with the engineer, George and the Mason Master were finalized, and the funding mechanism set in place. Construction is scheduled to begin by the first of October.
This is a major undertaking for TCI, and support for our Capital Campaign to fund the project is greatly appreciated.
Jeremy’s visit overlapped with Pat Laidlaw, our devoted Canadian friend who makes several trips to Phaeton each year to bring supplies, supervise the Garden Project, and interact with the kids. Pat spent several days at the school, teaching music, organizing singing and other activities, and culminating with Pat’s “Crazy Day”, her own version of a Field Day which the kids look forward to at her every visit.
The Mason, The Mason Master, Principal Patrick LaCombe, George the Engineer, Jeremy and Elmond Jean