Orlando Donors Help Build Hope in Haiti: Homes and Community Center Rising in Patasson
COCONUT CREEK, Fla. (June 25, 2025) – In the face of an escalating humanitarian crisis in Haiti, hope is taking root in the remote community of Patasson, where construction is underway on new homes and a much-needed community center provided by donors to Food For The Poor’s (FFTP) 25th Annual Celebration of Hope Gala last fall.
The crisis in Haiti has left much of the country in turmoil, with armed violence, food insecurity, and displacement affecting millions of families. Amid this instability, projects like the one in Patasson are vital lifelines – providing stability, a pathway toward resilience, and dignity for God’s children.
Construction of the community center was recently completed. At the same time, some families are already moving into the first of 25 planned homes, a dream for those who have lived for years in makeshift shelters, vulnerable to storms.
Dr. Lynne Nasrallah, who has chaired the Celebration of Hope Gala for 25 years, said knowing that construction has started in Patasson is a moving reminder of what commitment and faith can accomplish, even in the most difficult times.
“I am overjoyed to see this work under way,” Nasrallah said. “This project is not just about construction; it is about Christian love and compassion. It confirms what we can achieve when we come together with open hearts and open hands. The families of Patasson have waited patiently, and now, because of our generous supporters, hope is literally rising from the ground.”
Patasson is located in Haiti’s northeast region, an area immune for the most part from the violence that has wracked Port-au-Prince and other regions of the country this year. Still, most families live in fragile homes constructed of wood scraps and dried mud, practically defenseless from the fury of storms or even the slightest rainfall or gust of wind.
Each home will include two bedrooms, a living room, a kitchen, a bathroom, and a rainwater collection system with a 500-gallon reservoir. The project also includes five solar-powered streetlights and a sign marking the gateway to new beginnings.
“This is what transformation looks like,” FFTP President/CEO Ed Raine said. “The walls rising in Patasson represent far more than bricks and mortar. They reflect the love, generosity, and unwavering commitment of our donors to creating lasting change. These homes and this center are the building blocks of a stronger, safer, and more hopeful future for families who have lived in vulnerability for far too long.”
During the last Celebration of Hope virtual gala, Raine honored Nasrallah with the President’s Award for Excellence, recognizing her 25 years of service and dedication to impoverished children and families.
“As I stood there reflecting on Dr. Lynne Nasrallah’s incredible legacy, I was in awe of what has been accomplished under her leadership,” Raine said.
“More than 1,000 homes have been built, countless families have access to clean water, schools have been rebuilt, and millions of meals have been provided to those in need, all because of her vision and determination,” Raine added. “Dr. Lynne Nasrallah is a reminder that one person with heart and dedication can truly change the world.”
About Food For The Poor
Food For The Poor, one of the largest international relief and development organizations in the United States, is committed to facilitating paths out of poverty and transforming lives. As an interdenominational Christian ministry, we help families across Latin America and the Caribbean. Our efforts span urgent humanitarian relief and long-term development – from emergency aid and hunger alleviation to education, housing, and economic empowerment. We follow a distinctive approach that integrates faith, multi-sector strategies, and trusted partnerships. Whenever possible, we strive to work at the community level, partnering with local leaders and residents to co-create sustainable solutions that address the multi-dimensional nature of poverty. For more information, please visit foodforthepoor.org.
Michael Turnbell
Communications
954-471-0928
[email protected]
