About Us
OUR MISSION
Soutniyo is a team of volunteers between the United States and Haiti committed to meeting the most critical needs of the community of Fond Des Blancs. Located in the South of Haiti, we provided the community of hardworking farmers with healthcare, education, agriculture and moderate infrastructure.
OUR STORY
SoutniYo’s founder Onald Germain personally understands the hardship of living in Fond Des Blancs, Haiti. Onald grew up in Beaudoin which is a section of Fond Des Blancs. His upbringing was very difficult due to a lack of education, healthcare and infrastructure. He didn’t have the opportunity to go to school at an early age. As the firstborn of 5 siblings, Onald had to help his father on their farm in order to provide for their family. This is the reality for many children living in Fond Des Blancs especially in the commune section of Morne a Bruler, Beaudoin, and Grand Caye.
Due to the lack of resources, many children don’t attend school at an early age. To this day, in order for the children to attend the only school in the section of Morne A Bruler, Beaudoin, and Grand Caye, they must risk their lives by crossing two rivers on foot. It’s a dangerous road that no child or adult should have to bare.
It’s for this reason, Onald left his community to further his education and move to the United States but his heart still remains in Fond Des Blancs. He understands their daily struggle because he also knows what it feel to be hungry and poor with no opportunity in life. His love for the people of Fond Des Blancs is the reason why he created “SoutniYo” which means supports them in Haitian creole. Please, join us on our journey to provide sustainable aid to the people of Fond Des Blancs, Haiti.
MEET THE TEAM
SOUTNIYO'S U.S. TEAM
Onald Germain, Founder and President
Patricia Beauvais-Germain, Vice President
Sherley Cherenfant, Accountant
SOUTNIYO'S HAITI TEAM
Country Coordinator, Olvane Marcelin
Co-Treasurers, Marie Claunie ILopherne and Gerald Germain
Committee members: Fritznel Monestime, Ivelt Beaudouin,
WHERE IS FOND DES BLANCS?
Fond-des-Blancs is a communal section located in the South department of Haiti in the Aquin Arrondissement. It is the home of many people of Polish descent who have fought for the Haitian resistance during the Napoleonic Wars, after switching sides from fighting within the French regiments. Sadly, the people are isolated from the rest of the country .