Full Breakdown
The Struggle for Hope in Gang-Ruled Haiti: The Stories of Have Faith Haiti and HERO
3/16/2026, 6:28:53 PM
The Core Narrative: A Haven Amidst Chaos
In the Haitian capital of Port-au-Prince, where armed gangs control approximately 90% of the area, two organizations—Have Faith Haiti, an orphanage founded by bestselling author Mitch Albom, and the Humanitarian Emergency Response Organization (HERO), led by Stacy Librandi—are striving to provide safety, education, and medical care to the most vulnerable populations.
Have Faith Haiti: A Sanctuary for Children
Founded in the aftermath of the 2010 earthquake, Have Faith Haiti serves as a refuge for 56 children, many of whom are abandoned or come from desperate family situations. Mitch Albom and his wife, Janine, run the orphanage, which is fortified with barbed wire and guard towers to protect against the rampant violence outside. Albom noted, “There are a lot of children right on the other side of that gate who are not wearing shirts or pants right now, and their bellies are swollen and they're not eating.” The orphanage focuses on providing a nurturing environment, education, and a sense of family, with many children referring to the Haitian director, Yonel, as "father."
Education and Future Aspirations
Despite the dire circumstances, Have Faith Haiti emphasizes education. Over the past eight years, 16 children have graduated from high school, receiving scholarships to American colleges. However, they are committed to returning to Haiti to contribute to their homeland. “They’re not going to America to take jobs,” Albom explained, “but to appreciate it and have an opportunity that they can't have here, and then come back and make their country a better place.”
The Role of HERO in Crisis Response
Stacy Librandi's HERO organization emerged in response to the urgent medical needs following the 2010 earthquake. Initially focused on providing emergency medical services, HERO has adapted to the escalating violence and instability in Haiti, particularly after the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021. Librandi's team now operates helicopters for medical evacuations and has established a security wing to protect their staff. HERO is one of the few operational crisis relief groups in Haiti, employing a predominantly Haitian workforce, which is crucial for its success.
Criticism and Opposition
While both Have Faith Haiti and HERO provide essential services, the broader context of gang violence and governmental collapse raises questions about the sustainability of their efforts. The United Nations has reported that over a million people have been displaced due to violence, and the lack of a functioning government complicates aid distribution and security.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The situation in Haiti remains fluid, with varying reports on the effectiveness and reach of international aid efforts. While some sources indicate that fewer than 1,000 international troops have been deployed to assist Haitian police, others highlight the significant challenges faced by organizations like HERO and Have Faith Haiti in navigating the dangerous environment.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Every child has that potential inside, no matter what circumstance they come from,” — Mitch Albom, Founder of Have Faith Haiti
- “The security situation in Haiti is completely out of control.” — Anderson Cooper, Journalist
- “HERO thrives in filling the gaps,” — Coralie Caze, General Manager of HERO
Conclusion: A Glimmer of Hope
Despite the overwhelming challenges posed by gang violence and political instability, both Have Faith Haiti and HERO exemplify resilience and hope. Their commitment to nurturing the next generation and providing essential services offers a glimpse of possibility in a country grappling with profound adversity.
