Day 13: Haitian Refugee Camp II

We returned to our newfound friends in Acention today, working on a project to build a greenhouse and flatten out a dirt pile into the surrounding gardens. Because this work was incrementally easier than the gardening labor, we all switched off working with exploring the village and talking to the children. The two pups we found yesterday were rescued by little Jake (he took the girl and named her Lily) and Louisa (the boy - Ollie). The puppies could barely lift up their heads, and as we were pouring water into our hands for it to drink from, the surrounding children became irritated, questioning why we're wasting water on a dog and not them.

A little boy started lightly smacking the pup, which we scolded him for.  Later, when we asked if he liked dogs or not, he answered no because they just get in the way. These boys we viewed as bullies and were slightly appalled at were a little less evil in retrospect. They could barely provide food and water for themselves and their families, never mind these breeding canines, and the fact that a little dying puppy gets more clean water than them doesn't really make sense. The anger he took out on the dog however, the joy he got from bopping its head was unnerving and saddening. Will we ever be able to change the Dominicans views on animals and help the strays? I guess we have to target the people first and reach the animals later.

Sophie and the kids

Our lunch was the same, we ate half and gave half. Everyone bought at least one bracelet and we spent the last hour with the kids again. I met a girl, Elena, who was 16 years old. She cared for her whole family, her 9 brothers and sisters and when offered food she let the other kids take it first. When Juliana was passing out toothbrushes, she waited in line like the rest of the kids, but let 3 smaller children push in front of her. Juliana ran out as she got to the front of the line. 16. Sixteen years old and she was already doing what most of us never dreamed of doing before we turned 25, before we married and had children of our own. And even then, we probably hoped for a little cash to help us out.

I said I'd try to get her a passport, so she can work and provide for her enormous family. So she could finally leave the camp for the first time in sixteen years. So she can work to become the doctor she aspires to be. I told her I'd try.

Sohpie and Ollieee!


*Tuyens Photos!:)