── OUR STORY
It Began With the Children.
Long before Haiti Children’s Outreach had a name, one woman’s willingness to teach and care for children had already set the story in motion.
── TROU-BOIS, 1997
A door opened for learning.
Ertha Papillon began welcoming local children to her home and teaching them to read and write. Many were not attending school and lacked basic necessities such as shoes and school supplies.
Ertha helped however she could—providing sandals, shoes and supplies so the children could continue coming back to learn. As more children came, classes eventually moved beneath a tent.
“When a child needs an opportunity, we want to help open the door. When a child needs a safe place to call home, we want to be able to say yes.”
1997
A school begins
Lessons at Ertha’s home grew into classes beneath a tent and, with the help of donors and churches, a permanent school serving the community.
2006
A permanent home
As children who had lost parents, been abandoned or could no longer be safely cared for arrived, the orphanage was formally established.
Today
A family and mission continue
Approximately 33 children live at the orphanage. HCO also supports vulnerable children who can remain safely with their families through food, clothing and education.
── WHERE WE ARE TODAY
The buildings grew. The heart stayed the same.
What began with a few children coming to Ertha’s home has grown into a mission serving children and families through education, residential care, faith and community outreach.
We believe God has carried this mission from its humble beginnings to where it is today. Through the prayers, generosity and service of those who have walked alongside us, the story continues.
── WITH GRATEFUL HEARTS
We have never walked this journey alone.
Priests, parishioners, schools, students, families, volunteers, donors, teachers and friends have prayed, traveled, encouraged and answered when there was a need.
To St. Thomas the Apostle, Our Lady of Mercy, St. Michael, St. Scholastica, and every community partner: thank you for believing in our children and this mission.