Richardson

I met Richardson during one of my yearly trips to Haiti, back in January 2013, a meeting that profoundly impacted me.

Richardson's story is not unique in Haiti, a country plagued by political corruption, and economic instability. Kids especially young boys find themselves navigating the streets of Port-au-Prince, fighting for survival every day. He informed me that his mother lost her life in the devastating earthquake of 2010, leaving him orphaned, He never knew his father. 

During our conversation I asked him how he survived, - Richardson's with a fierce look, through his eyes, you could tell he had seen enough to be conscious of his being at this age. How do you survive I asked him. "I must fight to survive," he replied. simple yet powerful statement encapsulated his existence. "Where do you sleep?"  - Richardson, "Sometimes I have to pay 50 gourdes if I want to sleep at the market, if I didn't make enough money that day,  I sleep in the cemetery or anywhere I can find. 

Fast forward to May 2024, ten years later, and Haiti's situation has worsened. Gangs have tightened their grip on the country, seizing control of both private and public institutions. As I look at a collage in my bedroom, a photograph of Richardson on the far right side catches my eye. I wonder where he is now and what has become of his life. His story is a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by Haiti's youth.

In sharing Richardson's story, I hope to shed light on the struggles faced by Haiti's youth and inspire others to take action. Together, we can create a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their circumstances

This blog post is dedicated to Richardson and all the children of Haiti who deserve a chance at a better life.