Fall Newsletter 2025

Fall 2025

Newsletter

Standing Our Ground Continuing the Good Work in Haiti

IN THIS ISSUE Fall 2025

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STANDING OUR GROUND Continuing the Good Work in Haiti

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OUR COMMITMENT IN CONCRETE Building up Education in Haiti

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Board of Directors President of Board.........................Kate Guess Vice President of Board...Tim Van Maanen Secretary of Board................. Jenny Sorheim Treasurer of Board................Jennifer Douma Director................................ Danny Housholder Director...........................................Kendra Meyer Director.................................................Art Sathoff

NOT FORGOTTEN Addressing Abaco’s Unseen Needs

Not Forgotten p.11

13 WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT IMPACT 01

Scan to follow us on socials or visit our websites to stay up to date on our ministry.

Many Hands | 641.629.6633 P.O. Box 204 Pella, IA, 50219 COVER IMAGE: A young girl holds the Haitian flag during celebrations for Flag Day.

Because of You We believe generosity is the engine for all lasting transformation. Our mission is to be love in action by building and fueling this engine in others. From our purpose-driven businesses to our vital partnerships with individuals, churches, and foundations, we invite everyone to take part. Because of you and your generosity, Many Hands has been able to create lasting transformation in Haiti and Abaco.

In Haiti

In Abaco

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20

Students in Summer School In 2025

Homes Built

Since February 2025

108

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Goats Distributed Since May 2025

1,730

Refugees Received Provisions In 2025

178,600 Meals to Refugees In 2025

Want to fuel our mission?

Scan the QR Code to donate today!

Impact Participants Since May 2025

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We GO in confidence because we know that Jesus, our Savior, is in control to guide us.

-Christi Gabhart U.S. Lead Ministry & Benevolence

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STANDING OUR GROUND Continuing the Good Work in Haiti

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Imagine an entire city, the size of a thriving American suburb, emptied in a heartbeat.

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aiti is hurting. Headlines scream about political chaos and relentless violence in Port-au-Prince, forcing families from their homes, leaving hundreds of thousands with nothing but the clothes on their backs.

Imagine an entire city, the size of a thriving American suburb, emptied in a heartbeat. It’s a gut-wrenching reality, but in the midst of this darkness, something extraordinary is happening—a powerful, beautiful persistence that springs from the very heart of the communities we serve.

As Christi Gabhart, Director of Benevolence in Haiti with Many Hands, explains, “The gang activity moved a little north of Port-au-Prince to the community of Mirebalais, and then it has gone a little bit west and east…there are so many people that have fled their homes in those areas.”

A young girl holds the Haitian flag during celebrations for Flag Day.

While many organizations have pulled out, given up, packed up and left, Many Hands has stood firm. We are the ones who stay.

Our well-established programs—

First 1,000 Days, the goat program, our schools, community outreach, and agriculture—continue to operate, run by our Haitian staff, empowered by these stable foundations laid.

But this new crisis has brought significant need. Displaced families are arriving in towns like Pignon, stripped of the little they once had. And what happens?

The people of Pignon, many living in homes made of sticks and mud, open their doors and their hearts to strangers. They offer food, shelter, and a profound welcome that defies the chaos.

“We are so thankful,” one displaced person shared with our staff. “People opened their houses to us and helped us with what they had.”

Christi elaborates, “Many Hands has interviewed over 2,000 people who have left their homes. I heard a Haitian remark, ‘They left their house with only the skin on their back.’”

She adds, “Haitians are a generous community of people. People

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STANDING OUR GROUND

Photos: Many Hands staff members pack and deliver critical supplies to refugees and community members

have accepted others into their homes. Maybe they don’t even know them, but they know they’re in need. And so they’re trying to share what little they have themselves. Many Hands has been trying to come along and accompany those local people that are trying to host others that aren’t from this area.”

The immediate needs are stark: food, water, and hygiene. Many Hands is unwavering in our commitment to provide this vital aid to displaced families in the communities we serve. We don’t pretend to know what the overall future holds for Haiti. But we know what love looks like, and that’s how we move forward.

This isn’t just hospitality; it’s a raw, powerful act of “Love In Action” that reminds us what humanity truly looks like in the face of despair.

As Christi Gabhart powerfully states, “Many of these people have moved from a kind of general hunger status to starvation because they just don’t have anything to back them up. They’re relying on God’s provision. They know that this food that Many Hands has been able to share with refugees has saved the lives of children.”

Thanks to the immediate and generous support of our donors, with special gratitude to Bob and Starla Jensen, and our incredible partners Convoy of Hope and Lutheran Church of Hope, we were able to deliver a powerful response. We’ve reached over 1,730 people, distributing more than 178,600 meals, along with sanitation kits and cooking oil. And yes, our U.S. missionaries, Craig and Christi Gabhart and Mark & Melissa Kauk, are back on the ground, rolling up their sleeves, because we are the ones who stay.

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We are here for the long haul, rooted in the belief that even in the darkest hours, love wins.

Help us be the ones who stay. Your donation today will not only deliver tangible relief but will amplify the extraordinary, persistent hospitality of our Haitian neighbors.

Inside Haiti's Refugee Crisis

Pignon

Mirebalais

Port-au-Prince

As violence increases in the southern portions of Haiti many have been forced to flee north towards areas like Pignon with little more than the clothes on their backs.

1.3 million displaced the overall number of internally displaced people in Haiti has reached a record 1.3 million as of June 2025.

80% increase In the North, the number of people forced from their homes has grown by nearly 80 percent in a few months.

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This isn’t just hospitality; it’s a raw, powerful act of 'Love In Action' that reminds us what humanity truly looks like in the face of despair.

Thanks to you The generosity of our donors and partners has allowed us to continue our work during this crisis. Because of you, Many Hands has been able to:

reach 1,730 people provide 178,600 meals Help us be the ones who stay Scan or visit mh4h.org/stretch to donate today

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HAITI

OUR COMMITMENT IN CONCRETE Building Up Education in Haiti 07

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This is an important moment that marks the lives of all our Haitian students.

-Micul Pierre

Principal , School of Light

W

ith Haiti facing so much unrest and a heartbreaking refugee crisis, it would be easy to stop all our projects and programs and focus just on immediate emergency needs. Yet, we believe that amidst the chaos, we must continue to build for the future. That’s why we are excited to announce the near completion of our new school expansion at the Sylvain campus in Haiti - a pyramid of stability in a community that desperately needs it. School Principal Micul puts it into context when he tells us, “This is an important moment that marks the lives of all our Haitian students.”

This project is far more than a building—it’s a bold symbol of progress and a tangible investment in the next generation. The new three-classroom wing will accommodate grades 7, 8, and 9, expanding our school’s capacity and providing a stable environment for children in a community that desperately needs it. The construction efforts, done nearly entirely by hand brick-by-brick, is

Jean-Ronel Joseph hands a new bible to a School of Light student

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OUR COMMITMENT IN CONCRETE

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Our vision for the school is to prepare strong, competent, honest, conscientious men and women to form a strong Haiti, citizens who can have a positive impact on the world.

-Micul Pierre

Principal , School of Light

truly a testament to resilience, employing a crew of about 15 local Haitian laborers who are paid a fair wage for their skilled and unskilled work.

By continuing to invest in education here, we are laying a foundation that will outlast any temporary crisis. Education is the key to unlocking a different future for these students. It gives them the tools to not only provide for themselves and their families but also to become leaders who can bring positive change to their communities. A school is a sanctuary, a place where children can learn, grow, and dream, shielded for a few hours a day from the harsh realities outside the gate.

As Principal Micul states, “Our vision for the school is to prepare strong, competent, honest, conscientious men and women to form a strong Haiti, citizens who can have a positive impact on the world.”

Our commitment to education in Haiti extends beyond this single project. The existing school serves students in preschool

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through 6. The new addition for 7th through 9th grade helps students easily transition as they grow, ensuring they have a place to continue their learning journey.

We have seen firsthand the excitement of our sixth graders who can’t wait to move into the new seventh-grade classroom.

Many Hands’ robust educational program provides not only academic knowledge but also spiritual nourishment through sound Biblical teaching. We’ve distributed Bibles to 77 students in grades 3 through 6, and our Spiritual Shepherds partner with our agronomy department to provide both food and spiritual guidance to the families in this school. This holistic approach ensures that we are nurturing not only minds but also hearts and souls.

Your support is the bedrock of this incredible mission. Your generosity allows us to respond to immediate needs, and also to make long-term commitments to the children of Haiti. This project is a promise kept, and it is a powerful symbol of what we can build together.

On the Horizon Opening Soon New classroom wing on track to open on October 1, 2025.

Summer School Preparing 60 students a day in English, Spanish, and French writing skills.

New Amenities New school furniture, expanded bathroom facilities, and a second playground.

Future Computer Lab To equip upper elementary students with vital digital skills.

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This project is a promise kept, and it is a powerful symbol of what we can build together.

Photos: Current progress on the new school building and latrines

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A local community member, Zhivargo, poses in front of his soon-to-be completed home

NOT FORGOTTEN Addressing Abaco’s Unseen Needs

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ix years after the devastating force of Hurricane Dorian, Abaco continues its journey of recovery. Amidst lingering challenges, Many Hands’ commitment to long-term community development stands as a beacon of hope. Our Director of Community Engagement, A.T. Holder, shares a powerful glimpse into the heart of our mission and the tangible impact we’re making.

“When my family first got here to begin our mission work, Many Hands had already developed such a great reputation in the community,” A.T. explains.

“When people here think of Many Hands, they know that we’ll do what we say we’re going to do. That was true before I came, and it continues to be true now.” This steadfast commitment to integrity and clear communication have built a foundation of trust within the community.

The visible signs of change are everywhere. As A.T. describes, “Literally, you can drive down the road and see houses and the community taking shape.” Homes are being rebuilt, streets are being fixed, and a sense of revitalization is taking

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root. Beyond brick and mortar, a crucial shift has occurred: community members now have a dedicated space to connect. “They now have a place to go,” A.T. says, referring to the Many Hands office located in the Murphy Town Community Center.

“They have a place where they can come and share. Hopefully, they find this to be a safe place.”

This physical presence fosters communication, allowing community members to understand how Many Hands can, and cannot, assist them.

The needs in Abaco are profound, ranging from the overtly visible to the deeply personal. “People are living in houses that are still exposed to the elements,” A.T. notes. “They are getting eaten alive by mosquitoes at night. There are people still living in their cars.” Beyond shelter, a gnawing hunger persists. “Even people that you think are doing okay are hungry,” he shares.

Yet, the most pressing needs are often less apparent. “People are very isolated,” A.T. reveals, highlighting the plight of single mothers who feel they are burdening their families, with limited social networks. This isolation underscores the

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When people here think of Many Hands, they know that we’ll do what we say we're going to do.

-A.T. Holder

Director of Community Engagement

profound spiritual poverty that A.T. identifies as the greatest need. “To believe in Jesus is essential,” he states, emphasizing the importance of involvement in a church community. “You need to be involved in people who walk life with you.

This does help fill that community need.”

Many Hands operates not as a mere “fixer,” but as a partner. A.T. clarifies, “Our job isn’t to come and be the fixer. That’s God’s job. Our job is to remind them God has not forgotten about them.” This message resonates deeply within a community that has experienced abandonment by other organizations. “They are ready for help.

They are ready to embrace anyone who’s going to come alongside them.”

Beyond direct aid, Many Hands is strategically focused on generational change. At Central Abaco Primary School (CAPS), our programs offer access to quality learning for those who would otherwise be unable to afford it. “The kids want to be more involved,” A.T. states, highlighting the popularity of teacher Celekah Mills and other staff. Beyond the classroom, community events like reading picnics offer crucial activities in an area with limited youth programming.

Many Hands is not just rebuilding structures; we’re rebuilding lives, fostering community, and sharing the enduring hope found in faith. We invite you to be a part of this transformative work, to become a hand extended in love and service, and to join us in walking alongside the resilient people of Abaco.

Photos: A Many Hands Impact Team work to build a new home for Zhivargo, (pictured top left) a community member who lost his home in Hurricane Dorian

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What are people are saying about

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The most impactful part of the trip was simply being able to spend time with the locals, hear their stories, and pray with them.

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This trip wasn't just about helping others; it was about being changed ourselves.

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It truly touched my heart to see the resilience of the Abaconian people and how much they appreciate every effort being made to rebuild their lives.

Being able to worship alongside our new friends in Abaco was truly humbling. It reminded us that we are all part of a larger family in Christ.

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IMPACT TEAMS

The Way Church | February 2025

Haven Church | February 2025

St. Mary's Church | February 2025

Third Church & Ebenezer Church | February 2025

Skutt Catholic High School | March 2025

Third Church Spring Break | March 2025

Des Moines Christian School | May 2025

Kamerman's Friends & Family | June 2025

Scan the QR Code, visit our website at ManyHandsImpact.com or email Impact@mh4h.org to learn about upcoming trips.

Celebrate Church | June 2025

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709 Main St, Pella, IA, 50219 www.mh4h.org | 641.629.6633

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