St. Matthias Fall 2023 Update

We always start our updates with an expression of gratitude. Pr. Michaud, without fail, sends gratitude and blessings to his partners at St. John’s. As part of this update, we are sharing a message from Pr. Michaud received two weeks ago.

Good morning our friend Peter,

All the people in the community of Deslandes and the school of St Matthias are very grateful toward all the donors for all that you do for us. When we examine how much effort you have done for the community and the school, to be alive, they are very proud of you.

Without your assistance, nothing can exist; we cannot progress. The testimonies are, with your assistance, their kids can finish their class in their community; they applaud you.

Thank you so much for all that you do for us, particularly for the last school year (2022- 2023), as the teachers were paid, the school was able to do its best.

According to the Haitian government, school will reopen for this new school year (2023- 2024) in the second week of September. The situation seems very complicated for the parents because their one hope was the vegetable gardens. Unfortunately, all their crops were lost, “burned”, due to drought.

We always count on your compassion to prepare for the new school year; please help us make the school reopening (2023- 2024) possible.

To all our friends, we will never cease to thank you.

God bless you all.

Peace,
Pere Michaud

It touches our heart to share this message because it captures the spirit of our partners in Deslandes, Haiti. In the midst of political turbulence, gang violence, inflation, drought, and many other obstacles, St. Matthias continues its mission. They seek to be a bright spot for the children and the community. With our help, they are meeting this goal.

Starting the new school year on time, for the first time in several years, is no small feat. Financial struggle notwithstanding, violence and food security add to the gravity of the situation. The children of Deslandes have, at the very least, St. Matthias to turn to. Much of that work is the effort of Pr. Michaud and the parents in the community. They pull together and make the best of their situation. Be assured we have provided funds to help start their new school year. And over the coming months we will check on the conditions of the vegetable garden and assist as best we can.

We are a significant lifeline to the school. We have provided resources that allow their process to move forward. Our relationship and prayers are support mechanisms that are difficult to quantify but are as great as any funds we have provided. Our contribution to St. Matthias is lifesaving and our support is very much needed.

Last year, we were able to send $20,000 to Deslandes. This year we’re behind the pace with only $15,000 available to share. We hope to catch up on our fundraising to further assist the school in the Spring of 2024. Let’s continue to pray and support our partners in Deslandes. The St. Matthias Fellowship is grateful for your generosity and commitment.

Thank you.

- Peter Charles and Heather Spehr
Co-Chair, St. Matthias Fellowship