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PAYS POURI
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
History of Pays Pouri
Pays Pouri, Haiti, traces its name back to the French colonization of the region. The French who lived there found the climate very cold, and they often carried bread with them. Each morning they would check their bread and say, “les pains sont pourris” (the bread is rotten). The local people, unable to pronounce this phrase in French, repeated it as “Pays Pouri.” Since then, the area has carried this unique name.
Today, around 12,000 people live in Pays Pouri. It is considered one of the poorest localities in the community of Ganthier. Life is difficult: families lack access to clean drinking water, travel to the community is challenging, and traditional farming practices, though a primary livelihood, are largely unproductive.
The Church and Its Pastor
Église Chrétienne de Pays Pouri was established to bring the hope of Christ to this community. The church is led by Pastor Jean Hermilus Omilus, who shepherds 120 members faithfully. Since HCM began working in the area in 1989, the Gospel has taken root and transformed lives. Many people have given their lives to Christ, and the influence of voodoo has diminished significantly. The church continues to serve as a beacon of faith and encouragement for families in Pays Pouri.
Success in the Community
One of the greatest victories in Pays Pouri has been the spiritual transformation of its people. As the Gospel spread, many came to Christ, and the community began to change. In addition, Haitian Christian Mission built a water reservoir, which collects rainwater for families. This has been a vital resource, though many still walk 3 to 4 hours to fetch water when the reservoir is empty.
Challenges in Pays Pouri
Despite these successes, the community continues to face severe challenges. The lack of reliable water, limited access to schools, poor infrastructure, and no access to technology make daily life extremely difficult. Families struggle to provide for their children and to break free from poverty.
A Vision for the Future
With continued support, Pays Pouri can grow stronger in both faith and stability. Reliable access to clean water, better schools, and infrastructure improvements are key needs that will allow the people to build a brighter future for their children.
Partner with Pays Pouri. You can play a vital role in transforming the lives of families in Pays Pouri. By partnering with HCM, you help strengthen the church, expand access to education, and provide critical resources like water and infrastructure. Together, we can continue to share the Gospel, improve daily life, and give hope to the 12,000 people who call Pays Pouri home.
To donate click on the button above and type "Pays Pouri" in the comment section of the donation form.