For Georgetown couple Camille and Sam Otum, time is of the essence.
Gang violence in Haiti is creating an unsafe environment for the orphans under their care at the Welcome Home Children’s Centre, an orphanage the duo founded in the country.
And so with the holiday season fast approaching, the centre is throwing its annual Christmas fundraiser on Nov. 23 to provide the orphans with much-needed help.
“We want to share some updates about the orphanage,” Camille said in speaking about the fundraiser’s other goal, raising awareness. “In the news, Haiti is not a good place right now.”
“Haiti is basically a failed state right now,” said Sam, echoing his wife’s words. “It’s run by a group of gangs in different parts of the island. So far, we’ve been fortunate to not have the gangs coming [for the orphanage]. But in the last two months, they have tried to come into the town where we are, a place called Arcahaie.”
The locals in the community have organized a militia to resist, but, according to Sam, “the gangs have vowed to take the city.”
Those who attend the fundraiser will help ensure the Haitian orphans have a safe, clean and healthy environment to live in. The money raised will help develop the minds of these children in the orphanage’s classrooms.
During the Nov. 23 dinner event, speakers who have travelled to the orphanage will take the mic to convey to the attendees what they saw, driving home the urgency of the situation.
A band will provide some light entertainment. Proceeds will be raised through ticket sales for games and an auction as well.
The gathering will begin at 6 p.m. at the Gellert Community Centre. Tickets are $50 per person and $350 for a table of eight.
Those interested can buy tickets at the door or call the Otums at 416-648-0040, e-transferring payment to [email protected]. Attendees also have the option to text the above number to reserve tickets and pick them up at the door.
More information about the Welcome Home Children’s Centre, including where to donate year-round, can be found on its website.
