Why Haiti, Why Now

Today, Haiti is often portrayed in the media through the lens of Port-au-Prince, the capital city, where political instability, gang violence, and economic struggles dominate the headlines. While these challenges are very real, Port-au-Prince does not represent the country in its entirety.

In contrast, Northern Haiti, where YKM currently operates, presents a different reality. While still impacted by the challenges of poverty, communities in this region have more stability, stronger local governance, and a greater capacity for sustainable development. This distinction is critical because it highlights why pulling out of Haiti entirely would be a mistake.

The REality of Haiti today

Haiti is facing one of its most difficult periods in recent history. Since July 2021, when President Jovenel Moïse was assassinated, the country has been without elected leadership, facing severe instability, which has consequently led to widespread gang control in the greater Port-au-Prince metropolitan area. Hundreds of thousands of Haitians have been forcefully displaced from their homes, both internally and externally, which has not only had a geopolitical impact on the nation but has also affected inflation, food security, access to education, healthcare, and other necessary resources.

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How Northern Haiti Differs

Despite the uncertainty in the capital, Northern Haiti is not Port-au-Prince. While still affected by national challenges, Cap-Haïtien:

  • Has significantly less gang activity, making daily life safer for residents.
  • Maintains a stronger sense of community and local leadership, helping keep schools, churches, and small businesses running.
  • Has greater agricultural and economic potential, offering opportunities for sustainable development.

Why We choose
to stay

With many international organizations pulling out of Haiti, there is a growing gap in resources and support. But now, more than ever, staying matters. Here’s why:

Haitian-Led Solutions Work:

We believe in empowering local leaders rather than relying on external aid. By continuing our work, we help build self-sufficiency rather than dependency.

Withdrawing Would Leave a Void:

If organizations leave, individuals, families, and communities lose access to education, job opportunities, and essential services, making conditions worse.

Hope and Stability Exist:

In the north, life continues, and programs like ours are helping communities build for the future.

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We believe Haiti is going to get through to the other side. That’s why as an org, Y-KNOT is still going deeper while other orgs are leaving Haiti, but because we believe in the power of God, the power of the Gospel can transform lives, so we are going to stay, we are going to keep trusting God, and we are going to see Haiti come out on the other side stronger. Because God called us to transform lives, not just for here, but for eternity.” Ephesien Vincent, Haiti Director