In December of 2016, I went on my first short term missions trip to Haiti. We stayed at a very rundown orphanage in the city Croix-des-Bouquet, which is located outside of the capital city, Port-au-Prince. On that trip I had the privilege to get to know two brothers that lived there, Michael and James.
I was amazed with how kind and bright the boys were, and I soon realized just how talented they were as well. On one of our last days there Michael and James brought out many bracelets that they had beautifully designed and thoughtfully handcrafted. Equally impressive was the quality of their workmanship on each individual piece. I knew my friends and family in the States would love them just as much as I did. I brought home about 100 bracelets and sold them within a couple of days.
Soon after, Bèl Vi was born.
What you might not know is that Haiti is the poorest country in the western Hemisphere. The average Haitian income is $400 a year, with 59% of the population living below the poverty line. This is not because Haitians do not have the will to work; this is due to the fact there is a lack of job opportunities.
Bèl Vi gives James, Michael, and other Haitian Artisans an opportunity to earn a fair and liveable wage through your purchases. I remember on that first trip feeling so overwhelmed (I often still do). I was overwhelmed because the need is so great. I didn't know what I could ever do to possibly help create sustainable change in the lives of anyone living in Haiti. I’ve learned, we can't do everything, but we can all do something. Together, WE can positively impact lives and empower the Haitian people and their communities by stimulating their economy through job creation. When you purchase jewelry through Bèl Vi, you are doing just that. You are making a difference.
What a blessing to know that we can positively impact and change lives through simply purchasing jewelry that has been designed with and for a purpose.
God has shown Michael and James, that although life may be challenging, when we focus on the positive things- we will find hope, joy, and beauty in our daily lives.
Bel Vi. Beautiful life.
Shop.Share.GiveHope.Repeat.
Jocelyn White