The story from March 15, 2026, sheds light on a rare positive development in Haiti. Despite the country’s struggles, including a devastating earthquake 16 years ago that claimed around 200,000 lives and left millions homeless, there is a beacon of hope in Port-au-Prince. Amidst the turmoil of a collapsed government and rampant gang violence, the Have Faith Haiti orphanage stands as a sanctuary for children.
Bestselling author Mitch Albom and his wife, Janine, operate the orphanage, providing refuge to some of Haiti’s most vulnerable children. They’ve welcomed abandoned infants, toddlers with disabilities, and children who previously roamed the streets.
“All children deserve to feel like they have a future and the future is possible,”says Mitch Albom.
Traveling to the orphanage highlights the challenges. International flights can’t land safely in the capital, pushing Albom to fly from Florida to Cap-Haïtien. From there, he continues by helicopter. Port-au-Prince unfolds below, a city of chaos and dilapidation. Security is tight. Albom’s convoy includes heavily armed guards and bulletproof vehicles.
Within the high concrete walls topped with barbed wire, the atmosphere contrasts starkly with the outside. The children greet Albom affectionately, calling him “Mr. Mitch.” Each visit receives heartwarming welcomes. The orphanage is home to 63 children and over 50 staff, providing a stable environment where hope flourishes.
The education at Have Faith Haiti is a key aspect. Taught in both French and English, the curriculum aims to prepare students for college. Seventeen orphanage graduates have secured American scholarships and are committed to returning to Haiti after study to help improve their country. Education, faith, and love are the cornerstones of this nurturing environment.
While at the orphanage, the children bond like siblings, supporting each other through life’s difficulties. Yonel, the Haitian director, relates to their experiences, having been left at the orphanage himself years ago. His personal journey equips him to provide essential emotional support to the children, whom he views as family.
The security within the orphanage is of utmost priority, given that gang violence pervades Port-au-Prince. Regular emergency drills ensure readiness. The facility is equipped with essentials for safety and self-sufficiency in threatening situations.
Funding remains a challenge, as Mitch and Janine Albom, along with public and private donors, foot the orphanage’s expenses. The lack of recreational electronics and devices encourages children’s focus on education and creative play.
The ambition of Have Faith Haiti’s students is clear. Many aspire to roles that could influence Haiti’s development positively, such as pursuing political aspirations. Graduates aim to instigate change and believe in the power of education to rebuild their nation.
Internationally, efforts to curb Haiti’s instability include a recent U.N. decision to deploy multinational troops. However, financial backing from the U.S. has been significantly reduced, posing further uncertainty.
As new students graduate, they will continue the legacy of creating meaningful change, returning after study abroad to give back to the community. Their experiences reflect growing resilience and optimism for Haiti’s future.
The commitment and enthusiasm of the children and staff highlight a shared vision: to overcome adversity and harness their full potential, inspiring collective hope for Haiti’s tomorrow.