Haiti
WHAT WE DO
Alleviating ultra-poverty in Haiti
"End poverty in all its forms everywhere."
United Nations Sustainable Development Goal #1: No Poverty
Haiti was the first independent country in Latin America but unfortunately has grappled with persistent poverty, natural disasters, and political unrest, which have hindered economic development and social progress. Haiti remains the poorest country in the Americas and one of the poorest countries in the world.
The Central Plateau is one of these rural regions with a relatively high percentage of people living in ultra-poverty. Most of their children are not in school. They live in homes without adequate shelter, exposing them to occasional torrential rains. Their health is at risk because they have no means to treat the water they must drink.
For this reason, Opportunity International adopted a new, unique strategy for assisting families in this region to improve their living conditions and economic circumstances.
Facts about Haiti
- 59% of the Haitian population lives under the national poverty line
- 24% live under the national extreme poverty line
- 25% of children aged 5 to 14 years are working to support their families
- Most of the Haitians population lack access to basic goods and services like drinking water, sanitation or even a protected place to stay.
- 20% of the population have no latrine
Our work in Haiti
Ultra Poverty Graduation Program
This 18-month program offers life skills training alongside weekly home visits from case managers. Participants receive assets to start their own business and a cash stipend for the first six months. The program results in better living conditions and an economically sustainable livelihood for graduates.
Village Savings and Loan Associations
Through VSLAs, members are encouraged to save, borrow, and invest in income generating activities. This promotes financial literacy and inclusion.
See how your support is
making a difference in Haiti.
Learn more about our program in Haiti, including strategy, objectives, and outcomes.
Empowering dreams and changing futures...
Carline participated in the Pathway to a Better Life Graduation Program and worked hard to achieve her goals. With the support of her case manager, she learned critical life skills such as budgeting, which allowed her to save for the future.
Now, Carline’s family is building a home, and she has purchased livestock to advance her dreams further. Her determination and hard work have paid off, as her children will soon be able to attend school. This program has transformed Carline’s life, and she serves as a reminder that anyone can achieve their dreams with a bit of help.