Haiti’s Struggling Economy: Challenges, Uncertainty, and Hope for Stability
Haiti is currently facing a severe humanitarian crisis characterized by escalating gang violence, widespread food insecurity, and significant threats to public safety. Armed gangs now control approximately 85% of Port-au-Prince, leading to a surge in sexual violence against children and the displacement of over a million people, half of whom are children.
The situation has deteriorated to the point where, in September 2024, famine conditions were officially declared. Reports indicate that nearly half of Haiti’s population—approximately 5.4 million people—are experiencing crisis levels of hunger or worse. The famine is primarily attributed to gang conflicts that disrupt food transportation and prevent civilians from accessing essential resources.
In light of the current humanitarian crisis in Haiti, Zonta District 7 continues to focus on empowering women and girls through education and advocacy. Providing financial assistance to educational programs and supporting projects that improve women’s lives and their communities. This includes funding scholarships that allow Haitian students to continue their education despite economic hardships, ensuring they have access to tuition, books, uniforms, and supplies. Additionally, Zonta clubs have contributed to food relief efforts by providing money for rice and other essential provisions to help families struggling with severe food insecurity.
Haiti Project Update (2014-2016 Biennium)
The Zonta District 7 Haiti Project (2014-2016 Biennium) made a lasting impact on the lives of women and children in Croix des Bouquets, Haiti. Adopted as the official district project, it focused on four key areas: education, healthcare, skill-building, and advocacy.
Key Achievements:
- Education Support
- Provided scholarships for Haitian students, ensuring access to quality education.
- Supported nearly 500 students, including children from orphanages, by covering tuition, books, uniforms, and school supplies.
- The Zonta Club of St. Louis funded scholarships for two students to attend private school.
- Healthcare Initiatives
- Organized medical and dental clinics that served over 4,500 women, children, and families.
- Partnered with local professionals to provide ongoing health education and mentorship.
- Skill-Building Programs
- Established vocational training for women, teaching sewing and carpentry skills.
- Enabled women to earn an income by making school uniforms and building classroom furniture.
- Advocacy and Support
- Introduced the “Zonta Says No to Violence Against Women” campaign in Haiti, raising awareness about domestic violence, which was only recently criminalized in the country.
- Delivered essential supplies funded by Zonta clubs across District 7 through fundraising and individual donations.
Through these efforts, Zonta District 7 empowered Haitian women and children, offering them opportunities for education, safety, and self-sufficiency. This initiative set the foundation for continued support in the years that followed.
