Cap-Haïtien

SOS Children’s Villages supports individual children, young people and families so that they can thrive (photo: SOS Children’s Villages in Haiti).

Cap-Haïtien is the second largest city in the country, located in the north coast of Haiti. Around 200,000 people live in this city, which is the capital of the Nord Department, and has received the nickname ‘Paris of the Antilles’ for its many colonial buildings. However, due to its geographical location, the city is vulnerable to floods. The consequences of these floods disproportionaly impact the lives of the poorest. Haitians also live in fear and uncertainty due to the social unrest in the country.

Since 1989, SOS Children’s Villages has been supporting children, young people and families and advocating for their rights in Cap-Haïtien.

50%
Of households have been affected by floods

Vulnerable to natural disasters

The country of Haiti is prone to natural disasters, with some of the most devastating ones in recent years being the earthquakes of 2010 and 2021, and the hurricane of 2016. The area of Cap-Haïtien specifically is vulnerable to floods. These disasters destroy lives, families, and houses, and poor households are often disproportionately exposed and less resilient to them. These recurring catastrophes are also a major constraint for families trying to escape poverty. 50% of households in Cap-Haïtien have been affected by floods at least once in recent years. Children are most vulnerable to the disasters, they are not able to go to school or receive proper health care. In the worst cases, they lose their homes and families.

200
Gangs are terrorizing people in Haiti

Living with uncertainty

In recent years, Haiti has been shaken by social unrest. Recent ones concern fuel shortages and gang violence. Due to political instability, the price of fuel has soared, and supplies are very low. This affects every layer of society, making it impossible for schools and hospitals to operate, and for people to move freely. Furthermore, around 200 gangs have been terrorizing the population. Physical and gender-based violence, road blockings, and threats of kidnapping, have left many Haitians scared of leaving their homes. Although the gangs are not as active in northern Haiti as they are in the south, people in Cap-Haïtien can still feel the impact of their violence.

Your support makes a difference for children in Cap-Haïtien

SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
2,580
Adults and children
Are supported in the community
2,580
Children
Learn at our kindergartens and schools
70
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
210
Young people
Are supported on their way to independence
Children grow up together and often form bonds that will last a lifetime (photo: SOS Children’s Villages in Haiti).

How your support helps in Cap-Haïtien

Strengthening families and communities
When parents face hardships, they can sometimes struggle to give children the care they need. SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities. Each family needs different support so that they can stay together. This support can include workshops on parenting and children’s rights. We also run trainings so that parents can get the skills they need to get a job or start businesses. Likewise, we ensure that children can get medical help and go to school.
Providing quality education
SOS Children’s Villages ensures that children and young people have access to high-quality education. We help them learn and develop in a safe and supportive environment. We train teachers on children’s rights and child-centered learning, so that each child can get the most out of their education. Young children spend time playing and learning at kindergarten. This prepares them for primary school.
Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.
Supporting young people to become independent
To help young people become confident and independent, our local team works closely with each young person to develop a plan for their future. We support young people and also help them prepare for the labour market and increase their employment prospects. For example, young people can attend workshops and trainings run by SOS Children’s Villages. They also improve their skills through taking part in different projects with local mentors and businesses.