Dear Friends & Supporters,
Just when you think that life in Haiti can’t possibly get worse, the rule of law has been completely discarded. As the people struggle to survive 30% inflation, with the cost of rice up 40% and flour 68%, the government announced an increase in fuel prices. Haitians took to the streets in widespread protests around the country. Some are capitalizing politically on the discontent with the current government and are calling on protesters to attack banking institutions. (Miami Herald, 9/16/22)
We thank God that He closed the door to the trip we were beginning to plan for Sept. 23rd. He knows all things, praise Him! Currently there is a level 4 Travel advisory for Haiti, urging people not to go. Very few airlines travel to Haiti now and even the missionary flights were cancelled this week. Pastor Bastia was in the U.S. visiting supporting churches in Wisconsin when things fell apart and he couldn’t get home. His flight with MFI arrived safely today in Piñon but there are multiple roadblocks between there and Hinche where his family lives. Pray that he will be safely reunited with his family soon. Please pray for the church as they weather this terrible storm that has ignited the entire country. We are watching things closely and will keep you updated. Meanwhile, please pray for a good solution to this chaos and for a fair and safe election process to be put in place.
We will be having a fundraising yard sale Oct. 21 & 22 to raise money for the needs of the people in Caneille. See attached flier. If you are local, you can clean out your closets and garage and bring over your lightly used items. We are also looking for volunteers to help.
Our next project in Caneille is to landscape the property to allow the water to drain away from the clinic building. When heavy rains fall the soil is being washed away. We have hired an engineer, and his estimate is $22,000 to landscape the entire property. Please pray about this need and give if you are able. If you would like more information, please let me know.
"Be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord." Psalm 27:14
Please pray about God's plan for our next medical trip to Caneille, tentatively January 6-16, 2023. Contact me if you are interested in joining the team so that I can keep you informed. We know He will make a way as we pray and wait.
May God continue to bless you as we enjoy all the freedoms we have in America. Thank you for your prayers and support of this mission.
In His service,
Julie Gibbs, RN