Jennifer Lang, Program Manager – May 21, 2012
On May 11, Hope for Haiti celebrated our enduring partnership with the Catholic Medical Mission Board (CMMB.) Like many organizations in Haiti, including partner Nos Petits Frères et Soeurs Hospital represented by Sister Judy Dohner, Hope for Haiti’s operations in the South rely heavily on in-kind donations of medications and supplies. CMMB has been a major supplier, donating over $700,000 USD this year in medical materials to help Hope for Haiti carry out its mission. These in-kind donations reach patients at Hope for Haiti’s Infirmary Saint Etienne in Les Cayes and include crucial medications for those patients who cannot pay and that are living with chronic diseases. They reach rural areas with limited access to medical care, such as Baradères and Gris Gris where Hope for Haiti-sponsored doctors lead the fight against cholera.
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| Agenda and CMMB brochure | The beautiful entry way of the Hotel Montana |
Sr. Judy of NPFS with Srs. Janet and Elizabeth |
The celebration in Port au Prince’s Hotel Montana, a site remembered by all who experienced the devastating earthquake of January 2010, recognized CMMB’s 100 years of outstanding service and partnership within Haiti. The organization was founded in 1912 by Dr. Paluel Flagg of New York, committed to providing healthcare for people living with leprosy. The ceremony featured guests from all over Haiti and the world, including CMMB’s Country Director, Dr. Dianne Jean-Francois, and President & CEO, Dr. Jack Galbraith. The evening’s speeches focused on CMMB’s history and impact, both in Haiti and worldwide, and highlighted CMMB’s key partners including two education partners and its coordination with the Haitian Ministry of Health (MSPP.)
CMMB’s mission brings more to Haiti than needed in-kind materials, including hosting visiting doctors with an emphasis on long-term training of local physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and auxiliaries. The organization also focused on filling urgent gaps in care for mothers and children, HIV and AIDS patients, and amputee patients in Haiti. Because of the pressing need for amputee care following the earthquake, CMMB chose to step out of their traditional role and partner directly with Saint Vincent’s School to construct new disabled-friendly facilities and aid in surgical care and follow-up, which is so desperately needed.
After formal introductions were completed, guests applauded CMMB’s past successes and future endeavors. The warmth and prestige of Haiti remained on display throughout the night, featuring both traditional and modern dances in the center of the room by the group “Tchaka Danse.”
On behalf of Hope for Haiti’s Infirmary Saint Etienne and 25 Healthcare Partners, thank you, CMMB, for your essential support! We look forward to the next 100 years of partnership!