In Haiti, where extreme poverty, ongoing unrest, and acute hunger affect millions—including nearly 5 million facing severe food insecurity—children are especially vulnerable to chronic malnutrition. This often leads to stunted growth, weakened immune systems, cognitive delays, and reduced energy for learning or play, perpetuating cycles of hardship for families and communities. The emotional strain on parents unable to provide adequate food is profound, limiting hope, stability, and opportunities for spiritual or physical growth.

Light from Light, a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit (formerly Christian Haitian American Partnership), partners with local Haitian leaders—particularly the Lespwa Timoun ("Hope for Children") Clinic—to strengthen community foundations through compassionate, sustainable change. Led by experienced local health providers like registered nurse Carmel Valdema, the clinic delivers weekday medical care in Croix-des-Bouquets, while U.S. mission teams support mobile clinics, medications, vaccinations, dental/eye services, and nutrition programs in remote villages. The organization focuses on empowering Haitian communities for long-lasting progress in healthcare, nutrition, education, clean water, and more.

A $10,800 grant from Ten Thousand Reasons supported Light from Light’s partner clinic by providing critical nutrition aid. This funding enabled the delivery of 150 cases of Plumpy’Nut—a ready-to-use therapeutic food (RUTF) resembling nutrient-packed peanut butter—along with durable, easy-to-dispense packages. Mothers and caregivers administer it to severely malnourished children, promoting rapid weight gain and recovery from emergency malnutrition. Combined with the clinic’s daily nourishing meals for dozens of children, this restores health, boosts energy levels, and allows kids to grow stronger, engage more fully in daily life, and participate in the clinic’s holistic care environment.

By addressing immediate physical needs, the program draws families into a supportive space where they experience compassionate care rooted in hope and community. This opens doors to broader health education, preventative services, and spiritual encouragement—helping break poverty cycles and fostering resilience amid Haiti's challenges.

The grant empowered Light from Light and Lespwa Timoun Clinic to provide:

• 150 cases of Plumpy’Nut therapeutic food to treat and reverse severe malnutrition in children.

• Durable, tear-open packaging for easy, hygienic distribution to mothers and caregivers.

• Nourishing meals served three times daily to dozens of children, restoring health, energy, and vitality for growth and development.

Thank you to the Ten Thousand Reasons community and student advocates for enabling this vital support—helping Light from Light partner with Haitian leaders to bring healing, nutrition, and hope to vulnerable children and families!