Scholarship Program

Because only about 10% of the schools in Haiti are public, and private schools cost at least $100/year, many children in the St. Clare’s neighborhood have almost no hope of getting an education. The Scholarship Program at St. Clare’s began in the fall of 2001, when the What If? Foundation provided community leaders with the resources to enroll four children into schools. In the fall of 2009, despite tuition increases in Haiti, the What If? Foundation was able to provide 200 school scholarships to children in the St. Clare’s neighborhood – 176 to elementary and high school students, and 24 to students at technical colleges and universities.

“My goal is to be a doctor so that I can heal the sick. Doctors are so needed in our country because so many are suffering.” – Lorite Rosenie, 8th grade

A donation of $250 funds a one-year scholarship for an elementary school student. A contribution of $350 makes it possible for a high school student to go to school for one year.  Scholarships cover tuition, books, transportation, uniforms, and miscellaneous school fees. Members of the education staff meet with students throughout the year, track their progress and provide encouragement and support.

(The photo on the right is of Nathalie Jeonnat, a medical school student we are sponsoring.)

We are proud to report that more than 90% of the students we sponsored in 2008 advanced to the next grade level and that three of our technical college students graduated in December 2009. Our hope is to raise sufficient funds to support our students in continuing their educations after they graduate from high school, where possible.

“If you don’t know how to read or write, how can you become a president or a lawyer? We are going to school so that we can help our country, the people, and because in life everything is connected.” Sarah Auguste, age 16

After the Earthquake

When schools closed after the January 12 earthquake, our partners at St. Clare’s launched a special education program for children that took place every afternoon before food program meals were served.  This two-hour gathering was attended by hundreds of children. Members of the education staff taught the children songs, provided materials for arts and crafts, and led group discussions.  Lavarice Gaudin, our earthquake relief coordinator, told me the teachers chose one subject a day to explore with the children.  Topics included the earthquake and related fears, courage, service to others, life skills and values.  Now that schools have reopened, the education staff is focused on supporting the students we sponsor as they complete the school year (which will extend through the summer).

See more pictures in our Photo Gallery.