Help for Haiti Purses

Lesson for Mom: Olivia came to us last week FULL of excitement over a fundraising idea for Haiti. My instant reaction was to shut her down, as I am heavily involved in fundraising and program development for our spring and summer program at church that will be focusing on world vision and missions in Haiti and Ethiopia. "I am already doing my part". But then that little nudge... " don't squash the giving spirit that is so enthusiastic in my children." So I rally valiantly to the challenge and sit down with my daughter to talk about the wonderful heart that she has and get a plan down that is doable but also able to make an impact right now! She made a plan for purses and we wrote the below letter to go along with it. She was armed with the purses today as she set off for school and just a little bit nervous about handing them out. Please read below if you are interested in donating. We will plan to make our lump sum contribution to the Maranatha Orphanage on the weekend of February 6/7th.
My name is Olivia Benner and I am raising money to help the children in Haiti after the large earthquake a few weeks ago.

I have made small purses for you to collect your change, in an effort to raise as much money as we can for the Maranatha Orphanage, School, and Church located in the village of Terre Noir, just east of the city of St. Marc, Haiti. Some suggestions for collecting your money are: ask family members, and friends to contribute and also collect any loose change that you may have through the week! Have fun and be creative!

Before the Earthquake:
Last summer we learned a lot about this school and home for the kids that live there and raised enough money to build a fresh water well. Through the generosity of countless sponsors and donors, over 40 orphans receive food, clean water, clothing, basic medical care, and an education. Additionally, hundreds of children are given lunch 5 days/week, as well as the opportunity to attend school.

After the Earthquake: The current status at Terre Noire: The orphanage building has been emptied of everything, as it is not safe for use for any purpose. The church/school building in Terre Noire received only a few minor cracks in the walls. It continues to house 35 refugees from Port-au-Prince. And additional people continue to arrive seeking food and shelter. The well continues to yield about 50 gallons of drinking water each day.

What they need: Cash and/or supplies for Maranatha in the short term and the rebuilding of the orphanage & home in the near future.

Please go to http://www.cornwallchurch.com/ and visit the Haiti Update link for more information. All money will go directly to the Maranatha Orphanage for immediate and future needs.

Thank you for giving!

Olivia Benner