While it is still extremely dangerous in many parts of Haiti, Petit Trou de Nippes is in an area Gerry classifies as ‘yellow passage’ as opposed to areas that are ‘red.’
“We still have to keep close track of activity in the area, from time to time kidnappings can happen,” Gerry said. “But there aren’t the random killings that are going on elsewhere. That helped us make the selection. It’s an area that can use a lot of help.
“Meeting the priest was an important first step. Every time we go into a new area, we need a collaborator we can work with, someone who can do the preliminary legwork for us: find people to participate, announce what the program is all about.
“We don’t have the full funding yet, but we have about two-thirds of what we need in the pipeline in terms of materials. We have filters on order and some on the way to Haiti from Miami. Our plan is to be able to train 450 new Water Women each week.”
And Gerry has a special message to the Water With Blessings Community:
“From the people of Haiti, and from myself, I thank you for the support of this program. You are making a real, important difference in the lives of these people. Despite all the challenges, you have helped so many people in Haiti.
“May God bless all of you with a New Year of Peace and Love!”
