After returning from working as a first responder nurse just after the Haitian earthquake, a friend convinced Patricia Arquette to start a project to help in Haiti. Patricia felt what she needed most was trust that something could be done, courage to go ahead, and the willingness to stay open to learning and guidance. She began calling people who might be able to help. From this beginning network of partnerships is emerging. Give Love has been created by Patricia and her friend Rosetta Getty, also from LA.
3 girls in front of a tent city in Haiti.
Patricia writes:
I want you to know about the project I have implemented to help the people in Haiti. The project is called Give Love. In Haiti we have partnered with L’Athletique D’Haiti and Boby Duval who has been working since 1996 with marginalized children. Our plan is to pilot an urban village for 2 years on the land we have been given for this project, and to demonstrate sustainable initiatives including housing made from shipping containers, sanitation solutions, water filtration, alternative energy, communal food and herb gardens, hiring women and men to work in the project and build their capacity to manage their own communities.
I feel very proud to be a part of this project because what we are creating will provide a solution to a very serious problem. I just got back from visiting Haiti and the site which will be used for our project. After seeing everything first hand, I am more determined than ever to help the women and children I met there.
Please visit our website, www.givelove.org, and spread the word! This project will be a success with the help of all of our friends and your wonderful generosity. You can be assured that every penny raised and spent for this project will be overseen by me.
Dear Patricia,
It is the Centenary Year for the Worldwide Girl Guide Movement (founded by Baden-Powell in England) this year. Our small grand-daughter chose the crisis in Haiti as her project to share with her (very small) group of Guides in the local Guide Troop as part of this programme. She will be so interested to see what you are doing. It is truly wonderful. Do you think the international Guide and Scout Movement would be interested in supporting your sustainable village?
With all good wishes,
Faith Rohana Bourne