A Second Update from Fr. Frantzdy
On Thursday, November 4, the OSJ office spoke with Fr. Frantzdy to check on Duchity after the heavy rains and flooding. Here is his update:
On Thursday, November 4, the OSJ office spoke with Fr. Frantzdy to check on Duchity after the heavy rains and flooding. Here is his update:
Fr. Frantzdy’s Health
His back pain is under control with medication and exercises. He still needs surgery for other medical issues and is trying to arrange travel to Port au Prince to meet with the surgeon.
Flooding
The rains have subsided. Several families lost crops and animals, but the families who sheltered in the church have returned home.
Safe Environment Training
Fr. Frantzdy held two days of training for 80-100 children on how to protect themselves in vulnerable situations. Abusers often offer parents money to stay silent, which has contributed to an increase in child abuse. In December, he plans to offer training for parents on protecting their children and managing their finances.
Education and School Lunches
Tests are scheduled this month to assess what the children have learned so far, and the school lunch program continues. Fr. Frantzdy is housing six teachers in the rectory, which allows him to recruit teachers from outside Duchity.
Gang Activity
So far, Duchity remains safe from gang activity.
Wish List Items
Fr. Frantzdy is always grateful for the generosity of the St. Thomas community, but other needs inevitably come up in conversation: building repairs, a fence and metal security doors for the school, solar panels, Christmas gifts for the children, and funds for his travel to Port au Prince and his health care.
Please keep Fr. Frantzdy and the people of Duchity in your prayers. They always include us in theirs.
