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"Beginning in 2001, planning and land acquisition was begun by the elders of the rural community of Grison-Garde, Haiti: their dream was to build an orphanage and primary school for the most poverty stricken of their children. That dream, which seemed impossible then, has become a thriving reality. The Robert Ford Haitian Orphanage & School Foundation is a tax-exempt, 501(c)3 secular foundation created to fund this project. All support to this point has been provided by our foundation. First, through the generosity of its initial benefactor, Robert N. Ford, who decided after 95 years on this old earth to continue sharing some of his own good fortune.---and now through the continuing gifts of dozens of members of our community here in America. We feel that the primary reason this "miracle" has happened is that all planning and construction of the buildings was done solely by members of the community of Grison-Garde. Day to day maintenance is entirely in their hands, also. Not only have 52 orphans been thriving now for two years in the orphanage buildings, but 302 children attend the primary school-children who would have had no education otherwise. These day school children receive a large noon meal each school day. Unfortunately, for many of the kids, this is the only substantial meal available to them. There are 39 employees from the community, including 8 certified teachers. In a land of over 75%-unemployment, the value of this speaks for itself American mission groups are now adding significantly to the effort with installation of a solar powered water system and various carpentry projects. Haitians are employed by these groups so that potential for local income is not lost. The Grison-Garde committee that conceived of this project also has hopes of extending it further into the community with well drilling efforts and improved medical care.  Our yearly budget needs exceed $65,000, not to mention many additional projects which should be funded. Dozens of Americans have visited the orphanage and school and can speak for its positive impact. We, and especially the people of Grison-Garde, welcome visitors and gladly accept any help that can be offered. There are no administrative fees deducted from contributions: all funds are transmitted directly or carried by us with careful accounting being maintained. Our agent and coordinator in Haiti, is a trusted friend of The Haiti Mission (medical), Bernard Gilles. We ourselves, visit to help evaluate the project at least four times each year. This effort can continue only through the continuing generosity of those about us. Haitians are amazing people, living so often in misery, but possessing immense dignity and grace. They can offer nothing in return but their heartfelt thanks and prayers." (Ray Ford MD, February 2006) Contact information: Raymond F. Ford, MD
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