Below is our update written by Todd. If you are homebound, as most of us in Detroit are on snow day #2, then keep warm and read the post below.
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It’s been another interesting week in the world of Haiti and Jaline: Our lawyer was planning on moving Jaline to her new orphanage in Port-au-Prince on Wednesday; however, the political unrest quickly put a halt to that plan. On Wednesday, there were violent political protests at the entrance to Jaline’s village, which is about ten minutes from her orphanage. Fortunately, our lawyer was in touch with the director of Jaline’s orphanage who thankfully reported that Jaline and all the kids were safe. Our lawyer reported, like the news networks, about all the violence and danger in Port-au-Prince. The people are angry about another corrupt election and their continued disenfranchisement. It is easy to understand their anger and frustration after numerous elections where votes have been stolen or thrown out, so a preferred candidate can rule over them and fail to bring the changes necessary to improve the lives of the Haitian people.
Thankfully, Port-au-Prince has calmed down again, at least for now. We again rest in the Lord’s protection for Jaline as we struggle with the fear of violence around her while knowing that the current orphanage isn’t providing her with the nourishment she needs. We know that a move to the new orphanage will bring her an outstanding nutritional program, which she so desperately needs. While we think she might have less violence around her in the countryside, we know she will still be vulnerable to all the dangers which surround her from malnutrition and cholera. So… we pray and request your prayers for Jaline as we plan to move her Wednesday to the new orphanage in Port-au-Prince, which is brand new, with beds with mattresses, clean water, two children to every caregiver, outstanding nutrition, a doctor and nurse on site, directors who also speak English, so she can hopefully start learning a bit, and a loving staff who will help her on her road to physical recovery. There are some additional expenses that will come with that care, but we are very hopeful for the impact that love and great nutrition will have upon Jaline. Please pray for safety in the transfer and the Lord’s provision. It is an amazing opportunity to truly trust the Lord and place one’s hope completely in Him, as we know there’s nothing we can do to protect our child except to pray and wait on the Lord to bring Jaline home.
There are ten days remaining for the matching grant program through Lifesong. We have estimated the total Adoption expenses to be around $18-20,000. God has been faithful in providing what we need, in the exact time that we need it. What a faith builder that is! If you are able to make a donation to the “Rescue of Jaline”, we have partnered with a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization, Lifesong for Orphans www.lifesongfororphans.org , which is receiving gifts on our behalf to cover adoption expenses. All gifts are tax deductible. We have been approved for a $3000 matching grant from the Family Christian Stores “James Fund”. In addition, all donations above and beyond the $3,000 matching grant are still tax deductible and will be used to cover Jaline’s adoption expenses. Donation instructions are located on the right side of the blog. Donations need to be received before December 24, 2010. However, there is a sense of urgency to cover a lot of the up front costs of the adoption process. So, if you are able to give earlier than the deadline that would be wonderful. We understand that the economy has challenged many families financially, but we would love for you to partner with us on this journey if you are able.
Thanks for your prayers and support as we wait upon the Lord to bring His precious child home!
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