What to expect when you visit the CHCH
The Cap Haitien Children’s Home (CHCH) is a great place to stay during your trip to Cap Haitien, Haiti. While staying at
the CHCH you will experience the day to day lives of the Haitian people along with the joy of children playing. Children
are the same whether in the US or in Cap Haitien, Haiti... they are full of love and energy! The CHCH is home to 29
children comprised of three family units. During the school year 250+ students from the community attend the CHCH
school.
Staying in Haiti is quite different than traveling in the US, but we strive to make your stay comfortable and provide you
with an authentic Haitian meal each evening. Coming to the CHCH is an experience that will impact your life as you will
be able to see the beauty of the country and the joy in the lives of the Haitian people.
Rates & Accommodations
At the CHCH we provide one large meal a day of Haitian food in the evening, sleeping quarters with bedding and linens,
bathroom facilities, drinking water and cold sodas. Groups are responsible for bringing their own snacks and food for
breakfast and lunch. Transportation to and from the airport are provided along with running errands around town. If you
wish to use the CHCH truck for work outside the CHCH it is available for an additional cost.
Nightly stay- $20 per person
Daily rental- $75 per day
 Includes gas & driver
Information about Haiti
Many visitors comment that Haiti is a land of extreme contrasts. The beautiful, tropical climate and the sparkling blue
water surrounding the island of Hispaniola all bring forth images of a tropical paradise. The extreme poverty, disease,
and human suffering however are overwhelming. Spiritually, the Haitian people are generally hungry for the Gospel, but
the fear and superstition inherent in voodoo dominates the lives of most common people and restrains them from
progress.
Climate
Haiti's tropical climate is usually hot. Some areas of the country are very dry and arid. The Cap-Haitien area, however, is
somewhat lush and often humid. The months of November/December and May/June are the rainy seasons. Other times
you should expect clear skies and sunshine. Temperatures in the winter usually reach 85 degrees and in the summer in
the 90's.
Culture
There are many differences between the Haitian and North-American cultures. For you, as a visitor, it is good to keep
these differences in mind.
Haitian culture focuses much more on inter-personal relationships. When working with a group of people, it is important
to take time to greet everyone. This may be in the form of a smile and a "Bonjour" or in the form of a handshake. Make
certain you acknowledge everyone before you begin working.
Time schedules are much more flexible and relaxed in Haiti. Avoid over-scheduling and be flexible with your time.
Money Exchange
The Haitian unit of currency is the Haitian gourde. At present, there are 42.05 Haitian gourdes to
every US dollar. You will be given the opportunity to change money for souvenirs, snacks, etc. Please
remember that in Haiti, single dollar bills are changed at a lower rate than fives, tens, and twenties. Small US bills are
accepted at the tourist market and some small stores.
Things to Expect
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A warm welcome from your Haitian brothers and sisters
Delays in the work due to unexpected variables
The opportunity to meet with different missionaries involved in all kinds of ministries
Bumpy roads and frequent flats
The opportunity to share a song, teach a lesson or to preach in a church service; this is considered a privilege.
Please come prepared.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much money should I bring?
You may want to bring extra money for souvenirs ranging from $2-$50 or more, and other miscellaneous
expenses. If you plan to eat at a restaurant be prepared to pay about $10- 20 per person. Note: Haiti now
requires an entrance tax of $10 US in cash and an exit tax of $60 US in cash at the airport on departure.
Will we have to pay customs on items that we bring with us?
Generally, personal items are allowed in Haiti. If you are bringing supplies or items to be donated,
especially medicines, please let us know in advance.
Will there be a place to wash clothes?
We can arrange for you to have laundry done with a day or two's advance notice. This is actually a good
way to provide a job for someone. Be prepared to pay $ 5-10 for this service.
Does our group need to bring tools or supplies?
If your group is involved in a work project or VBS, you may need to bring supplies. Your group leader
should confirm with us exactly what you should be prepared to bring.
Is there Internet at the orphanage?
No.
What vaccinations do I need?
Other than your current vaccinations for the U.S. the only one we recommend is a tetanus shot.
Should I take malaria medicine?
Many groups take the medicine to help prevent illness if you come in contact with malaria. Contact your local
doctor for more information.
Haiti: Information for short-term missionaries by Meg & Wilbert Merzilus
Haiti: Information for short-term missionaries by Meg & Wilbert Merzilus