Peace Arch News Thursday, October 18, 2012
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lifestyles
Fundraiser to benefit medical clinic
Lending a hand for Haiti A fundraiser to benefit a medical clinic and nanny training program in Haiti is set for Saturday at Gracepoint Community Church, 3487 King George Blvd. Held in South Surrey for the first time, Hearts for Haiti is to feature storytelling, authentic Haitian cuisine, children’s crafts and activities and a silent auction. The proceeds will benefit a medical clinic in Kenscoff, to expand services to include an infant-care program, and an orphanage in Port au Prince, where nanny training specific to caring for children in orphanages is to be offered starting in February. Fundraiser organizer Andrea Chatwin, a White Rock resident, said the clinic in Kenscoff – the city where her adopted daughter Kerlinda was born – has been running for almost two years with no services for infants. “If a woman has a baby, she pretty much just has it wherever she is and hopes for the best,” said Chatwin, who witnessed the need firsthand
when she began volunteering in Haiti about six years ago. “Certainly, my heart is in trying to change the outcome for children.” Last year, Hearts for Haiti raised $7,000 and Chatwin hopes to at least match that amount Saturday. In addition to raising funds, the event is to also share the “beautiful and spirited” culture of Haiti, Chatwin said. “I wanted this to be a real community event.” Chatwin noted Tuesday that she is appealing for donations of items for the silent auction following a break-in to her car Monday night. Anyone interested in donating may contact her at achildssong. services@yahoo.ca, or call 604-562-8308. Hearts for Haiti is set for 6-9 p.m., Oct 20. Admission is a $5 donation at the door per family, and food will be available to purchase by the plate. For more information, www.facebook.com/#!/ AChildsSong - Tracy Holmes
Contributed photos
Left, Andrea Chatwin and her adopted daughter, Kerlinda, outside the Haitian hospital whhere Kerlinda was born; top, Kerlinda with her birth sister, Daina, during a visit; above, Andrea and Kerlinda visit with another Haitian adoptee during this summer’s Fusion Festival.
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