Empowering Haitian Women Through Education and Support
Zonta International’s Haiti Project supports women in Haiti through education, health services and other assistance. The project is endorsed by Zonta International and supported by clubs in District 7.
The Zonta Club of Cape Girardeau started the Haiti Project in 2011, launching mission trips to Croix des Bouquets, Haiti, to provide support and resources to the community. Recognizing the project’s impact, Zonta International approved the initiative, and it was officially adopted as the District 7 project for the 2014-2016 biennium.
The partnership focuses on four key areas:
- Medical and Dental Health Services: Teams of Zonta members and volunteers have conducted multiple medical and dental clinics, serving over 4,500 women, children, and families. These clinics not only provide essential health services but also mentor local youth and health professionals.
- Education: The initiative supports nearly 500 students, including children from local orphanages, ensuring they receive quality education. Recognizing that education is not guaranteed in Haiti, especially for girls, the project has developed a sponsorship program to keep girls in school. A tax-deductible donation of $450 per year covers tuition, books, uniforms, and shoes for a student.
- Skill Building: Zonta has empowered women by teaching them sewing and carpentry skills. Women have been trained to sew school uniforms and build school benches, providing them with opportunities for economic self-sufficiency.
- Support: The project has provided various forms of support, including supplies funded by donations from Zonta clubs across the district, individual contributions, and fundraising events. These efforts have been crucial in sustaining the project’s initiatives.
In addition to these efforts, Zonta has introduced the “Zonta Says No” campaign in Haiti to educate and advocate against domestic violence, which only became illegal in the country a few years ago. This initiative aims to bring about significant cultural change and promote women’s rights.
Through these comprehensive efforts, Zonta International continues to make a meaningful impact in Haiti, empowering women and strengthening communities in partnership with the Haitian American Caucus.
Learn more about our parentship with Haitian American Caucus here https://www.hachaiti.org/