On June 14, 2026, on National Children’s Day, attention turned to those who represent Haiti’s future: its children. This year for WHI Haiti, the celebration centered on the theme “Protecting Children in Times of Crisis,” a vital reminder of our collective responsibility toward the most vulnerable.
As Haiti continues to face an unprecedented security crisis, millions of children are growing up in an environment marked by uncertainty, violence, and forced displacement. According to OCHA, nearly three million children today require humanitarian assistance to meet their basic needs and ensure their well-being.
In light of this reality, World Hope International (WHI) Haiti has chosen to make Protection one of the priority areas of its work in 2026. Through its programs, the organization works to ensure that every child can grow up in a safer environment, receive appropriate support, and regain hope despite the challenges of daily life.
Since March, WHI Haiti has been implementing the Bridge of Hope program in two communities particularly affected by the security crisis. Despite access difficulties and the risks associated with the current situation, the teams continue to stand by families to provide support, protection, and encouragement.
The program’s approach is based on a simple belief: protecting a child also means empowering the adults around them. With this in mind, 43 teachers and 378 parents participated in training sessions focused on understanding trauma, compassionate communication, and active listening. These sessions enabled participants to better understand the psychological impacts of the crisis on children and to develop practical tools to support them with empathy and kindness.
At the same time, the children received weekly psychosocial support, including support groups, individual sessions, and recreational activities designed to foster their self-expression, self-confidence, and resilience.
National Children’s Day also served as an opportunity to highlight the talents, abilities, and dreams of these young people who continue to move forward despite their hardships.
In several partner churches, the children played a central role in the celebrations. They led parts of the worship service, presented songs, readings, and various performances before their families and communities.
Beyond the organized activities, this day was a powerful testimony to their courage and their ability to overcome difficulties. Behind every smile lies a story of resilience. Behind every performance, a message of hope for the future.
Child protection is not limited to a single day It requires daily commitment from families, communities, institutions, and organizations working on behalf of children.
At WHI Haiti, we remain determined to continue our efforts to support children affected by the crisis, strengthen community protection mechanisms, and raise awareness among all members of society about the importance of creating safe environments where every child can grow, learn, and thrive. Now more than ever, we reaffirm our commitment to walk alongside them and build a future full of hope together with them.