Lott Carey, a historically Black Baptist missional organization, expressed “unwavering solidarity with the people of Haiti during this time of unprecedented crisis.”
In an April 16 public statement, Lott Carey pledged continued support for missions partners in Haiti and called on the international community to “join in prayer and support for Haiti.”
Turmoil in Haiti — still reeling from a devastating hurricane in 2010 that displaced hundreds of thousands of people — grew worse after the July 2, 2021, assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse.
Situation ‘dire’
Violent criminal gangs have seized control over large areas of the country. The United Nations Human Rights Office reported 4,451 people killed and 1,668 injured due to gang violence last year. Already in the first quarter of this year, at least 1,554 have been killed and 826 injured.
“The current situation in Haiti is dire. Gang violence has escalated, leading to a humanitarian disaster that has left millions in need of urgent assistance,” Lott Carey stated. “The recent gang war has resulted in thousands of deaths and has displaced more than 362,000 people, creating a state of fear and uncertainty.”
While violence initially centered on the Port-au-Prince area, its impact has spread into rural areas, as supply lines have been disrupted and grocery prices have increased dramatically.
Hunger crisis
“This has exacerbated the hunger crisis, with 4.4 million people facing crisis levels of food insecurity,” Lott Carey stated, pointing out it likely will grow even worse during the rapidly approaching hurricane season.
Texans on Mission
Texans on Mission — historically known as Texas Baptist Men — announced earlier this month it sent funds to help its in-country missions partner, Good for Haiti, respond to immediate hunger needs in rural areas.
Emergency aid
“In response to these challenges, Lott Carey pledges our support for the Strategic Union of Baptist Churches, the Haiti Baptist Convention, Mission of Grace and other partners in Haiti,” Lott Carey stated. “We have provided emergency aid, supported education and sent volunteers to assist in relief efforts. Our commitment to the Haitian people remains steadfast.”
Lott Carey has maintained a partnership with the Strategic Union of Baptist Churches of Haiti (L’Union Strategique des Eglises Baptistes d’Haiti) since 1916.
“We call on the international community to join us in prayer and support for Haiti,” Lott Carey stated. “We urge an end to the conflict and for peace to be restored.
“It is our fervent hope that through collective efforts, we can help alleviate the suffering and bring about a brighter future for Haiti.”
EDITOR’S NOTE — This story was written by Ken Camp and originally published by Baptist Standard.
