OUTREACH: INTERNATIONAL - JANUARY
St. Margaret's supports local, domestic and International outreach efforts. Please let us know how you can help!
2019 Year-end Report From Cazale Community and Cultural Center in Haiti:
THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUING SUPPORT OF CCCC
2019 marked another milestone for the Cazale Community and Cultural Center in Haiti. New programs were introduced, and all educational and social activities for the calendar year were completed with a high degree of satisfaction. A total of 118 children (45 boys and 73 girls) benefited from our programs. One director, seven teachers and two student assistants made this possible, along with your generous support.
The programs offered are:
AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM
This program provides tutoring assistance to elementary and junior high students in all subjects from 2-6 p.m., Monday to Friday, to improve their academic confidence. Two dedicated teachers support the program rain or shine.
LIBRARY SERVICES
Our library provides over 100 books in different subjects. This makes it possible for the students and local residents to have access to a wide variety of reading material. Two student assistants supervise this service.
COMPUTER PROGRAMMING
We received a donation of four laptops from a CCCC member, at the end of 2018 so that we could begin computer programing classes. In early 2019, we received a second donation of 16 laptops from another CCCC member. With these 20 laptops, we have been able to offer programming courses to 20 students twice a week with the help of one teacher and a much-needed generator, donated by an anonymous donor.
MUSIC CLASSES
The music program is very significant for both CCCC and the town of Cazale. The late Jean Orthon Drouillard, a native of the town, had always dreamed of opening a music school for Cazaliens. He did not have the chance to do it. However, his wife and children who shared the same vision decided to use CCCC to make his dream a reality. The family donated several instruments and is partially supporting the program financially. We are in the process of forming an orchestra with the help of two music teachers and a volunteer helper. There are 25 students taking part in that music program.
DANCE AND THEATER WORKSHOP
Nineteen youngsters under the supervision of one leader have formed a remarkable dance group in Cazale. This group has revived many aspects of our culture that had been nearly forgotten. These youngsters have been performing around Cazale on special occasions such as St. Michael and St. Andrew Feast, and the 50th anniversary of the massacre in Cazale.
SNACK PROGRAM
CCCC provided daily snacks for each participant in the after-school program. The snacks consist of juice, milk, peanut butter sandwich, or peanut butter and jelly sandwich. We also give hot meals to the students on special occasions.
SUMMER CAMP
Our annual summer camp was a great success this past July. We provided accommodations for 107 youths, 10 kitchen helpers, six local staff, and six members from the United States.
Our programs included seminars in punctuality, etiquette, importance of education, self-esteem, hygiene, sex education, and classes in art and jewelry making. Sports activities included volleyball, soccer, swimming and frisbee.
Every night the participants performed entertainment including live music, a theater skit and dance.
Altogether, we served 2,940 meals for the week of camp (140 meals three times a day). We consumed countless Culligan jugs of water for the week, (15 jugs of water per day, equal to 60 gallons of water).
We had an amazing experience and none of us wanted to say goodbye at the end of the week.
Our goal for 2020 is to repeat the success of 2019 and do it even better. We continue to learn, and we are continuously making improvements.
We thank you for your prayers and support!
~ Soledad Desruisseaux
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ARCHIVE 2019 INTERNATIONAL OUTREACH UPDATES
ZAMBIA UPDATE - Dec. 2019
Please pray for my country, Zambia. A drought last year caused a famine. People in the villages are starving and relying on wild fruits and some of these fruits are poisonous. Some deaths have occurred from eating these fruits.
I reached out to a friend in America who runs an organization that helps vulnerable communities around the world and she started an emergency food relief campaign and managed to raise a few funds to buy mealie-meal (this maize meal or the maize flour is used to make Nshima, the staple food in Zambia).
Gomez and I traveled to several villages to distribute food to starving families. Please keep us in your prayers.
~ Nanyemba Hamahuwa Chirwa
MALAWI UPDATE Dec. 2019
I send my heartfelt gratitude to the church members and those who contributed to our chicken project. I’m happy to report that they have started laying eggs. So far, we have collected 4 crates which we are feeding our kids in the homes. Despite losing 300 of the chicks, the 100 remaining are giving us enough eggs. We bought 100 more to replace the dead ones. So far it been 4 weeks without losing any chicks. Praise God!
~ Gomez Chirwah
NIGERIA - SEPTEMBER 2019
… That a parishioner from St. Margaret’s generously donated 14 cartons of home-medical supplies to help anyone in need? We were able to place these items with a few individuals, but mostly with Fr. Chux of St. Pius R.C. Church in Plainview, N.Y. Fr. Chux will add these supplies to other donations for a medical mission this month to Nigeria. We are blessed to have found the right place and the right hands to pass along this merciful gift. Thank you, everyone!
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HAITI - AUGUST 2019
HAITI 1O2 EVENT IS A SUCCESS!
Kudos to Soledad Jacques and her sister Gina on their second fantastically successful fundraiser to sponsor one week of CCCC Summer Camp for 70 children of Cazale, Haiti.
Guests feasted on delicious home-made Haitian food, danced to easy-to-love Kompa music, saw a Haitian fashion show, cheered at dance competitions and competed for raffle prizes emphasizing Haitian culture.
A video of the comprehensive work being done to develop and support CCCC’s After School Program was presented. We got a peek behind the scenes – and got to meet – many of the dedicated people who contribute the time, expertise and leadership needed to make Soledad’s vision a reality. The after-school program provides children and youth with mentoring, homework help, structured playtime, sports activities and music – all in a loving, Christian atmosphere.
At the end of the evening, Soledad welcomed Janet S. to the CCCC Board of Directors. Stay tuned for more details and pictures next month.
HAITI: JOIN THE FUN SATURDAY, JUNE 29 at 6:30 p.m.
Cazale Community Cultural Center was an idea born of a desire to give the children of Cazale, Haiti, the most basic of educational necessities. My family here at St. Margaret’s has supported this mission from its infancy,and I want to express my deepest gratitude for your generosity toward me and the Cazale community over the past years.
By helping CCCC get off the ground, you set in motion a program that will, with the grace of God, serve the community in ways unimaginable. There is no way to explain how crucial the backpack drive was in 2017, or the funding for camp was in 2018. The shoe drive we did this April was a huge success, and the direct anonymous donations we received are heart-warming. I pledge to keep working hard to give the children of Cazale, a better future and let them know that they are loved and thought of from far away.
This May, while in Haiti, I had the pleasure of meeting Jeanne L. Clark, the head press attaché from the American Embassy. She and her staff are aware of our work and pledged to look for ways to work with CCCC in the future.
We will continue to maintain a positive atmosphere for the children to learn and grow as we teach the im-portance of caring and maintaining their community.
God willing, we will host camp again this year. Our goal is to enhance each camper’s social skills as well as their cognitive development. Each camper will be provided room and board for one-week, roundtrip transportation, a T-shirt, a tote bag, and a hygiene kit. Last year’s camp hosted 69 kids. With your help, we can make 2019 even better. We are hosting our second annual fundraiser at St. Margaret in the undercroft at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, June 29, and we hope you will attend. All proceeds will go toward this year’s camp. The cost per child for camp is $80. Please be a sponsor and help a child have the adventure of a lifetime! Thank you in advance for your continued support.
~ Soledad
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ARCHIVE 2019
YOUTHCARE MINISTRIES: MALAWI, AFRICA
ADOPTING CHICKENS HELPS ORPHANAGE & SCHOOL
By the time you read this, I will already be back in my home country of Malawi, Africa, and reunited with my wife Nanyemba after a 5-week visit to the U.S. Thank you all for the wonderful welcome you gave me the last Sunday in April. It was a joy to address you at the 10 a.m. service, and to teach some of the Sunday School children about life in my country. As we discovered, it’s populated by more than the lions, zebras and giraffes that people travel to see on safari — we have plenty of active young Christians, too!
As you know, I was in the U.S. on behalf of Malawi: YouthCare Ministries, whose mission is to protect, care for and educate orphans and street children. We provide hope, housing, schooling, Christian education, and overall support to vulnerable children and youth.
We are appealing to well-wishers to help raise $5,000 toward beginning a sustainable project that will help both our kids and our neighbors. Our goal is to buy and keep 300 chickens that will produce eggs to sell to the community and provide nutrients to the Safe Haven kids in the orphanage.
For the past 16 years, YouthCare has served vulnerable children and youth who are at risk of all the ills of society. Dropping out of school, early marriage and substance abuse are just some of the problems that face homeless and/or poor young people.
We partner with churches, friends and donors across Malawi and the U.S. to use our hands to do God’s work in the world. Sponsoring and supporting children is where our heart lies.
Economic challenges affecting friends and donors has affected our own struggle to provide programs to safeguard the very basic needs of our children. This spurred the idea for a chicken business that will help meet ongoing needs of the growing number of kids in our programs.
Our vision is to use the $5,000 seed money to buy 300 chickens and chicken feed, refurbish the chicken house and purchase solar panels needed to keep the eggs warm (there is no electricity yet). A dozen chickens cost $25 and any amount of money is not small for the cause.
We pray that this new effort will help us to sustainably serve our poor community. Our mission is to provide not only the best home care, education and support, but also to preach the Good News of our Lord Jesus Christ.
All the funds will go through Urban Promise International (for tax returns) and they will wire it directly to our account. I thank you for helping to do God’s work in the world and look forward to sending you progress reports. You can use this link YouthCare Ministries and remember to indicate “Chickens for YouthCare Ministries.”
God Bless you all, and I hope to see you again!
~ Gomezgani Chirwa
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YOUTHCARE MINISTRIES IN MALAWI - APRIL 2019
Greetings! I am very excited about coming to St. Margaret’s and meeting you all on Sunday, April 28. My beautiful wife, Nanyemba has told me much about you and about her time at St. Margaret’s in 2018. As you may recall, Nanyemba and I were married in my home country of Malawi in Africa on Dec. 8, 2018.
My full name is Gomezgani Jackson Chirwa, but my friends call me Gomez. I am now doing missionary work with YouthCare Ministries in Malawi, and serve as Executive Director. In 2012, I received a B.A. in Christian Education from African Bible College, and in 2016, I earned my M.A. in Organizational Leadership from Eastern University, outside of Philadelphia.
My work involves managing programs, fundraising
and human resources. YouthCare Ministries was established in 2003 to reach the orphaned street children of Lilongwe, the capital city of Malawi.
Besides the burden of overwhelming poverty, Malawi’s inhabitants are being ravaged by the growing pandemic of HIV/AIDS, which has infected an estimated 16% of the total population. Our seven areas of focus are: Orphan Care, Afterschool Programs, Summer Camps, a High School, HealthCare, Sponsorship Program and Youth/Girls’ Empowerment Programs.
Our mission is to enhance the lives of at-risk urban youth by equipping them with the tools necessary for academic excellence (life skills, spiritual growth and leadership capacity), while meeting their basic needs.
I look forward to meeting each and every one of you on April 28. Have a blessed Easter!
~ Gomez Chirwa
GREETINGS FROM ZAMBIA (April 1, 2019)
Greetings to you all, my St. Margaret’s family! Last year I married my best friend Gomezgani Chirwa, whom you will all meet in a few weeks. He is a wonderful man and I am so blessed to have him in my life. My husband and I still live apart in different countries. Plans are underway for us to move in together. Please pray for us. I wanted to share a little about how Easter looks on this side of the ocean (Zambia).
Zambia is a landlocked country in Southern Africa. Our population is estimated at 18.14 million, of whom 85.5% are Christians; 1.1% are Muslims; and 13.4% are indigenous religions, including Bahai, Hindus, etc. Zambia was declared a Christian nation in 1996 while upholding the right of every person to enjoy their freedom of conscience and religion. This was in an amendment to our constitution, which initially did not specify anything on religion.
Christians commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ by taking time to preach love, forgiveness and reconciliation. It is an important period on the Christian calendar when all believers across different denominations commemorate the death and Resurrec-tion of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, who was crucified on the cross. During this period, churches are a hive of activity as Christians relive Jesus Christ’s journey to Calvary. Believers start the commemoration on Good Friday, the day Jesus died after torture and subsequent crucifixion. Prior to this many Christians pray and fast. Then on Good Friday, Christians wear white clothes and get up at 5 a.m. to go to church and celebrate the Resurrection! Prayers are conducted and the Resurrect-ion story is told. These practices reach their peak on Easter Sunday. There is singing, drumming and dancing as Christians celebrate the hope of eternal life.
~ Dorothy Nanyemba Hamahuwa Chirwa
ACTION FOR CHILDREN:
I also wanted to share that I have been serving children from the streets at Action For Children Zambia (AFCZ) where I help them with reading as well as counseling. Recently I was trained by Catholic Relief services in a concept called “Singing to the Lions.” This program was developed to help children who have experienced fear and violence in their lives. And most of the street children we serve have experienced a lot of fear and violence in their lives. I teach them the causes and consequences of violence; techniques to calm themselves in times of crisis; how to increase their inner strength and awareness; how to identify who to go to for answers and guidance; and most importantly how to let go of their fear. It’s been amazing to see how these children are learning to be open to things they have not been able to share with anyone. The kids are being equipped to develop the necessary skills to resolve the impact of violence and abuse in their lives … and to heal. Please keep these children in your heart and in your prayers.
I wish everyone a blessed Easter!
~ Dorothy Nanyemba Hamahuwa Chirwa
EASTER IN MALAWI
Of the estimated 18 million people in Malawi, 85% identify as Christians, 10% identify as Muslims, and the remaining 5% practice African religions. The Roman Catholic Church has great following, seconded by Presbyterian churches then Adventist and Pentecostal churches. Easter is celebrated differently in each denomination, but there are two major similarities.
First, most churches have two church services on Sundays, but on Easter there is usually just one service. In most cases, on Easter eve, most of these churches will have overnight prayers from 6 p.m. until 6 a.m. This special evening is full of praise and worship songs, sermons, and sharing of bread.
Secondly, national prayers are conducted by the different denominations, including Catholics, Baptists, Presbyterians and Pentecostals. Christians from all walks of life take part in a five-hour walk called “Njira ya mtanda” (The Way of the Cross).
The person chosen to carry a wooden cross demonstrates Christ’s suffering as the rest of the faithful wave palms, pray and sing. After this big walk, the people meet at one place for Easter worship and praise.
~ Gomezgani Chirwa
2018 Camp Is First for Haiti’s CCCC Kids
“Each of you has been blessed with one of God’s many wonderful gifts to be used in the service of others. So use your gift well.”
1 Peter 4:10
I would like to thank God, all CCCC supporters, and St. Margaret’s Church in particular for the realization of a wonderful camping program that benefitted 69 children in Cazale, Haiti, who otherwise would have had no summer activities in which to participate.
It has been a monumental year for Cazale Community Cultural Center. We opened the after-school program in 2017 with just 30 kids. By November, we had added cultural activities for the youths and an artisan workshop on weekends for young adults. We ended the year with 85 children in the after-school and cultural programs and 30 young adults in the artisan weekend workshop!
We completed the 2017- 2018 school year with the center operating at full capacity, and capped the school year with a successful one-week camp in July.
About a week before camp, there was unrest in the streets of Port-au-Prince, Haiti’s capital. The U.S. State Department issued a travel warning, and people were naturally fearful of traveling there. For context, as a condition for getting a loan from the IMF, the government agreed to raise gas prices from about $3.00 to about $4.50 a gallon, a move most observers agree should have been implemented gradually rather than precipitously. In any event, things went back to normal once the price hike was rescinded and 69 kids were able to attend camp and experience a wonderful week of learning, service and fun!
Our original plan was to accommodate 50 participants plus our staff. Upon arriving in Cazale, we met with additional parents who were desperate to send their kids to the camp. I consulted other CCCC members and decided to put our trust in God and allow the extra kids to join us.
Things started very slowly on Saturday as the school bus hired to transport the kids to the campsite could not make it up the dirt road. Our departure time was pushed back by over three hours while we made additional arrangements. But once we arrived at the campsite in the early evening, the excitement was palpable. The cheers and songs the kids were singing alleviated my anxieties about their long day and the fact that they hadn’t had anything to eat since breakfast. We settled down, had our first nightly meeting after a late dinner and everyone was encouraged to get some sleep, in anticipation of the busy day to come.
On Sunday, we attended church service at St. Paul Episcopal Church, and four of our campers proudly served as acolytes, The local priest was very grateful as he had no acolytes present that Sunday.
From that day on, we started our days with song, praise and meditation as we worshipped and thanked God. Mathurin, our very capable music teacher who blessed our week with his talents and leadership, lead us in songs each day. Our days became anchored by praise and worship at both ends, and my favorite memories of the week were merely listening to their voices flow seamlessly from one song to another in perfect harmony.
We held workshops in health, hygiene, etiquette, faith, community service. The kids also had art and music classes, and of course, sports and swimming. We also realized that the kids really wanted to learn English and that a few were attending English classes outside of school. We incorporated English classes into the curriculum, and they became very popular with all campers. In the afternoon, campers had a choice of art, sports or English lessons, and many chose English. The night-time activities consisted mostly of musical theater. The kids displayed some great talents!
All participants enjoyed three meals a day for the entire week in addition to organic fruits donated by the villagers and other guests who traveled from Port-au-Prince. They received professional coaching and tools they can take home and use for the rest of their lives. The children were grateful for this rare opportunity.
With 69 active kids of various ages, I praise God for the limited number of minor injuries suffered during the whole week there. Even though I felt a little underprepared with all the last-minute adjustments that had to be made, Mathurin and the kids had evening programming planned out nightly, and I was able to focus on other things.
It was such a blessing for me to be part of it all and I thank everyone from St. Margaret’s for making it possible.We only charged $7.50 per child for the week. Many families who could not contribute that small amount were able to supply us with home-grown plantains, beans and avocados to enhance our meals and eight ladies volunteered their time in the kitchen. We capped the week with a beautiful farewell show performed by the kids on the last day.
CCCC is a dream that came into reality. This camping event strengthened my desire to provide help to the children of Cazale. To St. Margaret’s Church and to all who traveled from abroad to make this camp a success (Victoria, Mario, Brielle, Tara, Mazarine, Yolanda, Carline, Camille, Fr. Nathanael Saint-Pierre), I thank you on behalf of the entire CCCC team.
~ Soledad Jacques
For more photos and updates, visit us at
CCCC websiteand our FB page at CCCC Facebook
Help Support Our Mission Trip to Haiti in July!
Donation: $25 - Must Pre-Register
INTRODUCTION TO HAITIAN FOOD, MUSIC, ART & CULTURE
FUNdraiser - HAITI 101 - Sat., June 16, 7-9 PM
COME JOIN US
Saturday Night, June 16, 7-9 p.m.
This fundraising event will help support our mission trip in July. Several church members will travel to Haiti to run a one-week summer camp for children who attend the Cazale Community Cultural Center afterschool program established by our parishioner, Soledad Jacques. Not everyone can make the trip, but everyone can have a fun time learning more about life in our companion diocese.
Our evening will begin with a short introduction into Haiti’s unique history and culture. Entertainment will include dance, music and stories. You’ll enjoy sampling local cuisine; local handmade crafts and artifacts will be on display, and gifts will be raffled.
This event is by reservation only. Kindly reserve your tickets ASAP by emailing or Questions? Call Janet at (516) 713-8418.
Suggested Contribution $25
Please make checks payable to:
St. Margaret’s Church
Event location:
St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church 1000 Washington Ave. Plainview, NY 11803
This past year has been a blessing for me. Not only are the children are doing much better in school, but we also have developed a close-knit bond within the com- munity.
The children recently went on a day trip to a cascade waterfall. I watched their video through tears of happi- ness; their faces were shining with joy.
I’m so excited about our mission trip to Haiti this July. Please join us on Saturday, June 16, for a night of history, great food, music, prizes and much more. Our goal is to share our love of service with a wonderful group of youngsters, to help cover the costs of sending 50 kids to camp, and to give support to those making the trip on behalf of the people of St. Margaret’s.
Thank you!
Soledad Jacques
WHAT WE DO
The Cazale Community and Cultural Center is a non- profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of young people living in Haiti. We aim to enhance positive social interactions and help the youth build self-esteem and confidence. We do this by offering tutoring and year-round extracurricular activities.
We currently have one after school center in Cazale, Haiti, that is serving about 60 students in elementary and middle school every day with the help of two high school tutors and an adult supervisor. The center is open after-school from 2 pm to 7 pm and on Saturdays from 10 am to 5 pm. Weekend activities include board games, dance, arts and sports. In coming years, we plan to have educational and cultural excursions to various locations in Haiti.
Beginning in 2018, we will host a one-week summer camp every year for the youth in Haiti in collaboration with youth in New York. This summer camp will build off of the topics discussed during the after-school program including promoting community service, health and hygiene, confidence and self-esteem, and the overall goal of loving your neighbors as yourselves.
More information at:
https://www.facebook.com/cccchaiti/
HAITI UPDATE: MAY 2018
Summer is coming – and that means kids all over are looking forward to camp! With your help, the Cazale Community Center in the Diocese of Haiti is making headway in providing “camperships” so that 50 Haitian children can attend a one-week summer camp in July. Fr. Isaias and Christie, along with Fal, Derek and Veronica Gibson, expect to join Gina and me on this very exciting mission trip. It only takes $60 to sponsor one child for a full week of fun and fellowship. We have already raised enough money for 10 children.
We’re aware that not everyone will be able to join us in person, but we certainly want you to be with us in spirit! So, here comes Haiti 101: a Saturday evening of Haitian art, history and culture. You’ll enjoy authentic Haitian food and try dancing to some of our best Zouk and Kompa music. Haitian artists will display paintings, as well as arts and crafts items.
You’ll also learn a bit of our past history, who we are and how we got here; our educational system and language; and our religious and cultural traditions.
It will be a fun evening for all at a date in June to be announced. Gina and I look forward to seeing you!
~ Soledad Jacques
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2017 ARCHIVE: OUTREACH TO HAITI
DECEMBER - Soledad Jacques thanks everyone who has supported the Cazale Community and Cultural Center in Haiti via donations and prayers. She will travel to Haiti this month to continue developing partnerships and programs in the year ahead.
~ Soledad Jacques
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ARCHIVE 2018 OUTREACH ZAMBIA
- MAY 1, 2018
NEW LITERACY PROGRAM UNDERWAY
IN LUKASA, ZAMBIA!
Warm greetings from Zambia to my St. Margaret’s family! It’s always wonderful to see pictures of you on social media; you are 1,000 miles away and yet so close in my heart.
I am happy to announce that the books that were shipped from America to Zambia in November 2017 have finally arrived! It took a long time for them to get here but when they did, there was great celebration. There is so much need for these books!
I am now working part-time for Action for Children Zambia. This organization finds and provides a home for children who live on the streets. I was hired to do administrative, financial and grant-writing work, but I have since introduced reading as a fun activity for our children. They truly love to read! The kids are fascinated by the great pictures and have so many questions. I love seeing their faces light up with excitement at receiving these precious gifts.We are so happy and thankful for the role St. Margaret’s Church has played in making these books available. It’s amazing that a book can bring so much happiness to a child’s life.
Generosity takes many forms – you don’t need to be physically present to make someone’s day. Love and kindness can be expressed by sharing simple things like books. Can you imagine how your life would have been without a single book? As Frederick Douglass said, “Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.”
Thank you, dear friends, for your prayers, love and support. We want to be able to touch more kids’ lives through the sharing of books.
On a personal note, a lot has happened since my last update. As you already know, I accepted Gomez’s (surprise!) marriage proposal in December. Our families have now met, and the wedding is set for Dec. 8, 2018. After marriage negotiations, the man is charged a bride price, known as “lobola” in our local language. The lobola can be paid before or after the wedding, depending on when the man’s family has the money. In my culture, the bride price is five cows, or money equivalent to five cows (our wealth is measured in cattle). Once the man’s family is told how much to pay for lobola, wedding preparations begin.
Before the wedding, I’ll have another ceremony. On Oct. 27 (my 28thbirthday!) friends and family will give me kitchen utensils or money toward building a kitchen. This is a festive time as the community comes together and shows support. It has some aspects of an American bridal shower. One difference is that my fiancé will arrive at a certain time during the ceremony to give me a present and unveil me in the presence of my family and friends. Then we have feasting, drumming and dancing. The drumming and dancing are our favorite parts! This ceremony is mainly attended by women who share their marriage wisdom with the bride – it’s a time for great rejoicing.
~ Sending my love to all, Nanyemba Hamahuwa
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ARCHIVE 2017 OUTREACH ZAMBIA, AFRICA
INTERNATIONAL OUTREACH UPDATES - ZAMBIA
DECEMBER 1, 2017
OCTOBER 2017 - GREETINGS FROM A NEW MEMBER
Dorothy Nanyemba Hamahuwa
In my country of Zambia, it’s normal to have two first names: one in English and one in our local language. My name is Dorothy Nanyemba Hamahuwa. I’ll be 27 on Oct. 27th. Zambia is a landlocked country in the southern part of Africa. Its neighbors are: Democratic Republic of Congo, Namibia, Botswana, Tanzania, Mozambique, Angola, Zimbabwe and Malawi. Our capital is called Lusaka, and that’s where the major businesses are located.
I am the youngest of three children. My sister is 31 and my brother is 28. We were all educated via church sponsorships and other nonprofit organizations working to uplift the lives of Zambia’s orphans and vulnerable children. I did not have the privilege of enjoying life with my birth parents, because God called them home when I was about 5 years old. The responsibility of raising my siblings and me was given to extended family members. Various relatives shepherded us, so I lived in many places. Each move involved going to a new church. Because I was a dependent, the choice of what church to attend was not up to me. I believe that constantly having to adapt to new surroundings was influential in shaping my life. It gave me the strength to always be willing to step outside my comfort zone and find friends in unfamiliar places.
Coming to America and leaving everything that was familiar to me was the biggest transition I ever experienced. Everything here is so different, and I had a lot of culture shock at first. In time, I internalized American culture, but I have not forgotten my own culture.
After I graduated Macha Girls Secondary School (high school), I was among the few students to be offered a government scholarship at the University of Zambia. I earned a B.A. in Public Administration and minored in Development Studies. I then had an opportunity to serve in my community at “Push the Rock Zambia,” as an after-school program assistant director. Push the Rock is a nonprofit that uses sports and athletic instruction to bring children to the knowledge of Christ. My desire has always been to find a platform to be able to give back to my community.
After less than a year, I came to the United States to pursue my Masters in Organizational Leadership at Eastern University in Philadelphia. This program is designed to deepen Christian faith and its thinking, and boost leadership skills needed in the complex non-profit sector.
While at Push the Rock Zambia, I observed how most of the children were struggling to read and to communicate effectively. I saw the need to begin a reading program to help children who were struggling to read, or who had the desire to read but lacked the resources and materials.
Here in the U.S., I have spoken with individuals, churches and private organizations about the challenge of illiteracy in my community, and how the reading program would be of benefit to children. In July, with the help of friends who supported my project by donating books and contributing funds for shipping, I sent 650 children’s books to Zambia. Currently, I now have 1,089 books that need to be shipped. My goal is to have the first-ever community library in Macha, Zambia.
The Brethren in Christ Church, where my uncle was a member, served the community I grew up in. As he was my guardian, I had to belong to that church, too. The church is about 107 years old. Many missionaries from Europe come to serve in its hospital, nursing school and high schools surrounding the local community. Sunday service usually lasts from 10:30 a.m. to about 1-2 p.m., depending how long the preacher takes to finish sharing the message. The hymns are sung in the local language (Tonga). Each week, usually 4 or 5 choir groups perform songs, with drumming and dancing for the Lord. Newcomers are readily welcomed. They are invited to go up front to introduce themselves, share where they are from, and say how long they are visiting. Before the service at 8 a.m., there are baptisms (if any), plus Holy Communion and foot washing In Zambia, church service can be a whole-day event! The message is preached in English but there is an interpreter who translates it into the local language. Sunday is always a special day because people leave their busy lives in order to be intentional in building community, and building relationships among people with Christ at the center.
I am truly enjoying my time at St. Margaret’s, and I look forward to singing a traditional Zambian worship song for you at an upcoming service.
2018 Camp Is First for Haiti’s CCCC Kids
“Each of you has been blessed with one of God’s many wonderful gifts to be used in the service of others. So use your gift well.”
1 Peter 4:10
I would like to thank God, all CCCC supporters, and St. Margaret’s Church in particular for the realization of a wonderful camping program that benefitted 69 children in Cazale, Haiti, who otherwise would have had no summer activities in which to participate.
It has been a monumental year for Cazale Community Cultural Center. We opened the after-school program in 2017 with just 30 kids. By November, we had added cultural activities for the youths and an artisan workshop on weekends for young adults. We ended the year with 85 children in the after-school and cultural programs and 30 young adults in the artisan weekend workshop!
We completed the 2017- 2018 school year with the center operating at full capacity, and capped the school year with a successful one-week camp in July.
About a week before camp, there was unrest in the streets of Port-au-Prince, Haiti’s capital. The U.S. State Department issued a travel warning, and people were naturally fearful of traveling there. For context, as a condition for getting a loan from the IMF, the government agreed to raise gas prices from about $3.00 to about $4.50 a gallon, a move most observers agree should have been implemented gradually rather than precipitously. In any event, things went back to normal once the price hike was rescinded and 69 kids were able to attend camp and experience a wonderful week of learning, service and fun!
Our original plan was to accommodate 50 participants plus our staff. Upon arriving in Cazale, we met with additional parents who were desperate to send their kids to the camp. I consulted other CCCC members and decided to put our trust in God and allow the extra kids to join us.
Things started very slowly on Saturday as the school bus hired to transport the kids to the campsite could not make it up the dirt road. Our departure time was pushed back by over three hours while we made additional arrangements. But once we arrived at the campsite in the early evening, the excitement was palpable. The cheers and songs the kids were singing alleviated my anxieties about their long day and the fact that they hadn’t had anything to eat since breakfast. We settled down, had our first nightly meeting after a late dinner and everyone was encouraged to get some sleep, in anticipation of the busy day to come.
On Sunday, we attended church service at St. Paul Episcopal Church, and four of our campers proudly served as acolytes, The local priest was very grateful as he had no acolytes present that Sunday.
From that day on, we started our days with song, praise and meditation as we worshipped and thanked God. Mathurin, our very capable music teacher who blessed our week with his talents and leadership, lead us in songs each day. Our days became anchored by praise and worship at both ends, and my favorite memories of the week were merely listening to their voices flow seamlessly from one song to another in perfect harmony.
We held workshops in health, hygiene, etiquette, faith, community service. The kids also had art and music classes, and of course, sports and swimming. We also realized that the kids really wanted to learn English and that a few were attending English classes outside of school. We incorporated English classes into the curriculum, and they became very popular with all campers. In the afternoon, campers had a choice of art, sports or English lessons, and many chose English. The night-time activities consisted mostly of musical theater. The kids displayed some great talents!
All participants enjoyed three meals a day for the entire week in addition to organic fruits donated by the villagers and other guests who traveled from Port-au-Prince. They received professional coaching and tools they can take home and use for the rest of their lives.The children were grateful for this rare opportunity.
With 69 active kids of various ages, I praise God for the limited number of minor injuries suffered during the whole
week there. Even though I felt a little underprepared with all the last-minute adjustments that had to be made, Mathurin and the kids had evening programming planned out nightly, and I was able to focus on other things.
It was such a blessing for me to be part of it all and I thank everyone from St. Margaret’s for making it possible.We only charged $7.50 per child for the week. Many families who could not contribute that small amount were able to supply us with home-grown plantains, beans and avocados to enhance our meals and eight ladies volunteered their time in the kitchen. We capped the week with a beautiful farewell show performed by the kids on the last day.
CCCC is a dream that came into reality. This camping event strengthened my desire to provide help to the children of Cazale. To St. Margaret’s Church and to all who traveled from abroad to make this camp a success (Victoria, Mario, Brielle, Tara, Mazarine, Yolanda, Carline, Camille, Fr. Nathanael Saint-Pierre), I thank you on behalf of the entire CCCC team.
~ Soledad Jacques
For more photos and updates, visit us at
CCCC websiteand our FB page at CCCC Facebook
Help Support Our Mission Trip to Haiti in July!
Donation: $25 - Must Pre-Register
INTRODUCTION TO HAITIAN FOOD, MUSIC, ART & CULTURE
FUNdraiser - HAITI 101 - Sat., June 16, 7-9 PM
COME JOIN US
Saturday Night, June 16, 7-9 p.m.
This fundraising event will help support our mission trip in July. Several church members will travel to Haiti to run a one-week summer camp for children who attend the Cazale Community Cultural Center afterschool program established by our parishioner, Soledad Jacques. Not everyone can make the trip, but everyone can have a fun time learning more about life in our companion diocese.
Our evening will begin with a short introduction into Haiti’s unique history and culture. Entertainment will include dance, music and stories. You’ll enjoy sampling local cuisine; local handmade crafts and artifacts will be on display, and gifts will be raffled.
This event is by reservation only. Kindly reserve your tickets ASAP by emailing or Questions? Call Janet at (516) 713-8418.
Suggested Contribution $25
Please make checks payable to:
St. Margaret’s Church
Event location:
St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church 1000 Washington Ave. Plainview, NY 11803
This past year has been a blessing for me. Not only are the children are doing much better in school, but we also have developed a close-knit bond within the com- munity.
The children recently went on a day trip to a cascade waterfall. I watched their video through tears of happi- ness; their faces were shining with joy.
I’m so excited about our mission trip to Haiti this July. Please join us on Saturday, June 16, for a night of history, great food, music, prizes and much more. Our goal is to share our love of service with a wonderful group of youngsters, to help cover the costs of sending 50 kids to camp, and to give support to those making the trip on behalf of the people of St. Margaret’s.
Thank you!
Soledad Jacques
WHAT WE DO
The Cazale Community and Cultural Center is a non- profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of young people living in Haiti. We aim to enhance positive social interactions and help the youth build self-esteem and confidence. We do this by offering tutoring and year-round extracurricular activities.
We currently have one after school center in Cazale, Haiti, that is serving about 60 students in elementary and middle school every day with the help of two high school tutors and an adult supervisor. The center is open after-school from 2 pm to 7 pm and on Saturdays from 10 am to 5 pm. Weekend activities include board games, dance, arts and sports. In coming years, we plan to have educational and cultural excursions to various locations in Haiti.
Beginning in 2018, we will host a one-week summer camp every year for the youth in Haiti in collaboration with youth in New York. This summer camp will build off of the topics discussed during the after-school program including promoting community service, health and hygiene, confidence and self-esteem, and the overall goal of loving your neighbors as yourselves.
More information at:
https://www.facebook.com/cccchaiti/
MAY 2018. HAITI UPDATE
Summer is coming – and that means kids all over are looking forward to camp! With your help, the Cazale Community Center in the Diocese of Haiti is making headway in providing “camperships” so that 50 Haitian children can attend a one-week summer camp in July. Fr. Isaias and Christie, along with Fal, Derek and Veronica Gibson, expect to join Gina and me on this very exciting mission trip. It only takes $60 to sponsor one child for a full week of fun and fellowship. We have already raised enough money for 10 children.
We’re aware that not everyone will be able to join us in person, but we certainly want you to be with us in spirit! So, here comes Haiti 101: a Saturday evening of Haitian art, history and culture. You’ll enjoy authentic Haitian food and try dancing to some of our best Zouk and Kompa music. Haitian artists will display paintings, as well as arts and crafts items.
You’ll also learn a bit of our past history, who we are and how we got here; our educational system and language; and our religious and cultural traditions.
It will be a fun evening for all at a date in June to be announced. Gina and I look forward to seeing you!
~ Soledad Jacques
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2017 ARCHIVE: OUTREACH TO HAITI
DECEMBER - Soledad Jacques thanks everyone who has supported the Cazale Community and Cultural Center in Haiti via donations and prayers. She will travel to Haiti this month to continue developing partnerships and programs in the year ahead.
~ Soledad Jacques
