Yesterday, the First Lady of the Republic of Haiti, Sophia Martelly, visited the Mercy & Sharing Village, a 17-acre campus home to 127 orphans, approximately half of who have physical or mental disabilities. Mrs. Martelly was cheerfully greeted by a delegation of smiling children, who presented her with a bouquet of flowers before taking her on a tour to see the newly opened Rehabilitation and Therapy Center. She also visited the orphanage's school and the computer-learning center. The First Lady then spent time with the children in their dormitories viewing their drawings and schoolwork. "This is the first time I have seen such positive work being done for children," has declared Ms. Martelly "this is such great work."

"For years, we have worked to provide essential services to disabled, abandoned and orphaned children in Haiti, focusing on health and education," said Susan Krabacher, Founder and President of Mercy & Sharing. "After nearly 20 years in this work, I am encouraged by Mrs. Martelly's passion and concern for Haiti's children, I believe this government will help us transform the outlook for children who have for so long been left behind and forgotten [...] Working together, we have so much more opportunity to positively impact children's lives [...] When children have what they need to live today and dream about tomorrow, then there is always hope for a better Haiti" concluded Ms. Krabacher.

Following the tour of the Village, the First Lady, children and staff gathered in the Chapel to sit and talk with each other. Mrs. Martelly was clearly impressed and overwhelmed by the happy, energetic children all around her. "I will be back," she said "I cannot wait to come back !"

Learn more about Mercy & Sharing

Mercy & Sharing is a Haitian-registered non-governmental organization. Operating in Haiti since 1994, the organization rescues abused, abandoned and disabled children and provides them with care, hope and opportunity. Mercy & Sharing employs more than 210 Haitians who run all operations there. 100 percent of public donations go towards these efforts, Mercy & Sharing's Board of Directors pay all U.S.-based administrative costs.

HL/ HaïtiLibre