Summer Camps in Petit Trou: How Our Partners Provide Safe Space for Children

As summer wound down this year, Petit-Trou-de-Nippes was filled with a special energy. Two local partners of Locally Haiti, St. Paul’s School, and the Association to Support Families and Farmers (ASFPN) worked with local leaders and families to create moments of learning, creativity, and joy at a time when every safe space is a victory.

St. Paul’s School Annual Summer Camp

St. Paul’s School hosted 179 students at its annual summer camp. Each morning began with a blessing and sharing session, addressing key topics such as nutrition and healthy eating, the importance of agriculture and trees, the meaning of community, and more.

After this reflective start, children could choose their activities: chess club, which has become a hit in Petit Trou; macramé, crochet, and crafts to unlock creativity; and soccer, dance, music, and games. Two meals were served each day, with the older students helping to cook and serve.

On the 14th, students and parents gathered to commemorate the earthquake that struck 4 years ago during the same summer camp. Mentors and students reflected, and parents noted that they were grateful that the tradition of the summer camp has continued through the years.

Across town, ASFPN, another key partner of Locally Haiti, organized a three-day arts and crafts training for 20 children. They created original pieces: alphabet letters turned into necklaces, pen holders, keychains, bracelets, and even small decorative plaques.

They experimented with colors, shapes, and glitter, and were encouraged to think as both an artist and entrepreneur. Each child expressed their personality through their choices, building both self-confidence and teamwork. Many left proud, holding in their hands a skill that could one day generate income.

Whether through the larger summer camp at St. Paul’s, or the more specialized workshop at ASFPN, these initiatives created a safe space to feel secure, free to create, learn, and dream. In a moment uncertainty weighs heavily on the future of young people, we were proud to support these initiatives, and grateful that our partnerships with local leaders allow us to engage in this way.