Turned away three times

Guess, the word of the day is frustration. The children have been to the Embassy three times and every time, they were turned away and denied access. I don't understand why, but I sent an email to homeland security asking for an explanation and they promptly sent an email outlining how to get into the Embassy. So I forwarded the information onto my agency and I pray the fourth time will do the trick. You see, the three babies need to go the Embassy, so they can get in line to go home. The other two families have their abandonment papers, but I'm waiting to hear if the orphanage has found mine. When Jefferson and Marta are presented they will be granted parole, but the orphanage needs to show proof that Aliette was abandoned. I know Aliette was an orphan prior to the quake, they would have never referred her to me, so the paper had to have been in the orphanage, but recall the orphanage was severely damaged. I have meet all the criteria for parole so it will be granted if they have the paper! When orphanage staff is asked directly if they have the paper, they respond adoption papers are gone. Now, we don't need the fancy sealed documents I gave copies to the government, we have all of those, but can't seem to ascertain if they have the relinquishment papers. Good grief. I am so ready to get off of this roller coaster. Yesterday was a dark day, doubt and fear began to take root, but today seems a little better. Although it is early in the morning, I fell asleep around 7 pm, so I for me, I'm slept well!

Today we are going to see the dinosaurs at the Yale Peabody Museum with a friend from school. Olivia thinks dinosaurs are for boys, but I think she will change her mind when she sees those magnificent bones. It will be nice to be away from computer for a few hours. Lord, time for another miracle and for news that she is on a plane and coming HOME! Please God.

Snow man design 101

My snow angel. Beautiful day to play in the snow. Thanks Renee for always capturing Olivia's special moments and putting up with me this week.

Forever Grateful

Tonight I'm weeping, exhausted, and overcome with gratitude for a complete stranger named Mickey. I mentioned him a few posts ago. Mickey went down to Haiti with a church group as a missionary and a film photographer. He has captured the plight and the resilience of the Haitian people. He has been there since the quake and I know he is ready to come home for a warm shower and a comfortable bed, but he ignored his physical body, and listened to God. He choose to stay in Haiti to help our three babies come home. I have never meet Mickey or his family, but we(adoptive parents) will be forever grateful. Mickey, I am humbled by your sacrifices and knowing that you are holding our little ones bring us such comfort.

Yesterday, Mickey helped sort through mounds of adoption/orphan paperwork that was in shambles since the big quake. Remember, there is close to 100 children at the orphanage. The mound of paperwork was overwhelming for the staff given they are caring for so many children, who are scared, hungry, and needing some love. But his kindness didn't end there. Today, he took the children to the Embassy for visual confirmation. I'm waiting on word as to how it went and if there is word when the travel papers might be issued. Without his sacrifices, I don't know if Aliette would have had the papers she needed or if the children would have had a way to get the the Embassy, because staff is so stretched. Mickey has also offered to bring the children home with him if allowed. Pray for this my friends. His plane is heading to JFK. So close to home and no huge airfare bills for last minute flights.

Lord, please protect Mickey as he continues to do your work. Rock your little children to sleep, and may they continue to be a symbol of HOPE and JOY for the entire world. I ask that soon means tomorrow because I'm really ready for her to come home. Thank you Lord for putting Mickey on our path.

Comments

Several of you have told me that you tried to leave comments and couldn't. After some investigation and tech support, I've changed the blog settings, it was only allowing others with blog accounts to comment. It is open to all. When prompted, Click Anonymous writer, but sign the body of your email. I appreciate all of you calls, emails, and comments. It gives me the strength and hope to keep on going. Hoping for some news today.

Earthly angels

The other day, I posted I spoke to a parent who works for the Red Cross. She knew of a group of people from New Canaan currently in Haiti helping with relief efforts. She followed up and contacted them explaining my situation. An unexpected call came today around lunch time from a mother of a missionary. Her son was staying at the TABARRE airport and he could see the orphanage from his tent compound. She gave me his phone number and said he was expecting my call. Since I didn't know exactly what to ask for, I contacted my adoption agency and relayed several messages explaining what needed to be done. He agreed to go to the orphanage and help sort through all the papers. The agency didn't have any further communication w/ Haiti and they tried all day. Usually it means things are happening, hopefully good things. If things were bad, they would get word. He will be returning to the states in a few days and have offered to take the babies along, if they get their clearances. Miracles abound. Thank you Lord for sending this Good Samaritian right on time.

Oh, Happy Day!

At 8:02 pm, I received a call from Homeland Security to inform me that Aliette qualifies for humanitarian parole level 2 pending proof of her abandonment. This document is in Haiti, not with me or my agency. So all you prayer warriors out there pray that they can produce the right paper at the US Embassy when they go to secure the children's paroles. Tonight we are one step closer to bringing her home! When might that be, I don't know but soon. During the conference call, they told us to stop worrying and go out and buy car seats!!

Prayer:
God, you are so good. You continue to make a way out of no way. When I go weary, you are my rock and my salvation. Please protect all the orphans in Haiti, may they find comfort in your arms and shelter from the rain and hot weather. I lift up the relief workers and all those who are raising funds to rebuild Haiti. Father God protect Aliette and the others at Maison des Anges as they begin to make their journey to their new homes in the US and I would like to say a special prayer for all of my fellow adoptive parents. After years of yearning, preparing, and dreaming our children are finally coming home, may we all savor and allow the blessings of this reunion to make us better parents and people. Despite all the heartache, joy, and sorrow, I feel so blessed to be on this journey with all of you.

Hope

Today I attended a two hour phone conference with several federal and state agencies working tirelessly to bring our children home. During the call, rumors were dispelled, and hope was restored, knowing that both the US and Haitian government want those children matched prior to the quake to come home to loving homes. Currently, humanitarian parole is being granted, but travel letters are not being issued. I'm still waiting for confirmation of her parole, but after today's conference I feel she meets all the criteria and we have all the documentation except the relinquishment papers which the orphanage has (I Pray). Dialogue between the US and Haiti's highest officials are taking place and the team today made no promises but were encouraging and hopeful that the children will be released soon. Today tears of joy and relief stained graded mid terms, oh well.

Blessings:
* Renewed hope that Aliette will come home
* All the government officials who are working very hard to unite families. Not an easy job.
* Wonderful colleagues that covered for me while I was on a 2 hour conference call
* Caring parents and teachers who have sent gifts of clothes or gift cards so I will have what I need once Aliette comes home
* Rev. Janet, for praying with me keeping me grounded and centered during these trying times
* MLK prayer warriors whose phone calls make me smile and transport me back to Reston. I miss you all
* For my Chinese adoptive families who email me well wishes and prayers

2nd Teleconference

Tomorrow at 10:30 EST will be the 2nd teleconference by Joint Council. Haitian government has passed a new law to prevent children who were not orphans prior to earthquake from leaving the country. Guess, some people did not play by the rules. The government will need to approve all children leaving on visas or parole. Although humanitarian parole is still being issued, they are not processing travel documents. This will prolong her homecoming. UGH!

I did hear this morning that Aliette and her friends are doing well, but are looking forward to coming home. The woman who is taking care of them loves them to pieces and I guess is pretty resourceful. Thank you Gladys for taking such good care of our children. I can rest a little better knowing she is in your hands.

Today, I spoke to a staff aide in both Senator's Dodd's and Governor Rell's office. Don't think either phone call made a difference. I did speak to a NCHS parent who is the Director of International Red Cross and she made a note of where the orphanage was and is making sure supplies get to them. Blessings.

Funny, I was all set for a two year wait, and now all I want is for her to come home. Circumstances have drastically changed. Lord, help me to accept the things I can not change. Teach me to be patient and enjoy this waiting season. I thought advent was over! Guess I was wrong.

Stay tuned. I'll update around lunch time.

Road block

This evening the Haiti government stated they must approve every visa and humanitarian parole before the child leaves the country. This will cause a delay in Aliette's homecoming. I did receive word that Gladys(director of orphanage) is working on getting ALL the kids home. This is the first I've heard of any moment to get them out.

Looking for the blessings:
* I've had so much energy, my house is really, really clean.
* Lack of sleep yes, but I've watched all of my stored movies on tivo
* Kindness of friends and family
* Prayers from the Bishop
* Hugs and kisses from my adorable daughter
* Lost 6 pounds and counting!

No news

I was hoping to have something new to report, but there isn't. My orphanage director feels it is unsafe to travel to the US Embassy, so they haven't made any attempt. The children are safe and still well. Today as each one of you make their way to church, pray for a few angels to be sent to Maison des Anges and rescue our three babies. Pray for Marta, Jefferson, and Aliette that they continue to be reliant and strong during this chaotic time. I would also ask you to say a prayer for the adoptive families for strength, courage, and wisdom as we begin a new week.

In the News

We are celebrities, but I would rather go back to my boring and dull life. CT NBC news just left. Olivia got scared of all the camera and all the questions the reporters were asking. She was really, how shall I say this, a royal pill. NBC is going to have do some major editing. This morning, my dad and I went shopping for a dresser and baby bedding. Burlington had exactly what I wanted. Crib is up, furniture is rearranged, and baby clothes have made their way into their new home. Now, all I need is for Aliette to find her way home. I'm ready, come home soon little one.

Limbo

We are in a holding pattern. Aliette's orphanage is about 10 miles from Port au Prince. They have sought safe haven with a large orphanage up the road, but they don't have the nannies to lose three to take them to the embassy and wait in lines for days. There is also not enough food and water to sustain the little ones during the wait for the proper paperwork. My agency is working with the state department and Joint Council to have the kids escorted by them rather than orphanage staff. Currently, Aliette and the others are alive and safe, but this could change any time.

For the past week, I have been glued to the computer and my cell phone, waiting for the CALL to come get her. Reality is it may be weeks before she comes home. I've shared my story with the press Waterbury Republican and BBC, called Senators and Congress, now I need to TRUST in God to perform a miracle. I mentioned 2 other families anxiously awaiting for their Haiti child to come home. Amy, from North Carolina, has become my new best friend. She gets it. She understands first hand the rollercoaster of emotions, the fear that they might not grant parole to our babies because they are new into process or have a missing paper. She is a military wife and like myself has been making lots of noise. She is talking with military to see if they can conduct a search and rescue mission. Extreme, yes, but this is the time for action and to do nothing will be jeopardizing the lives of three children loved by their families in the US.

This weekend I'm going to continue to get ready for Aliette's homecoming but after the crib is set up, the dresser put together, and closets purged, I'm going back to my life. I'm going to try to focus on living today, not worry about things I can not control. This won't be an easy task, but a necessary one because it is just too hard to live without sleep and constant worry.

No I'm not giving up Hope. I have hope and faith that she will come HOME, but I'm not in control. God is. He is in the mountain moving business, so I'm stepping aside, so He has room to work.

Press begins to champion our cause

First a call from the BBC, and last night an hour interview with the Waterbury Times. The Joint Council has written a strong letter to the Dept. of State with the support of over 50 members of Congress and the Senate with a deadline of 10 days for the exodus of our children. A few of the children have come home they have been highlighted on the news, but they got out because their parents or agency secured passage on a private plane. This really isn't the best way to proceed because extra planes are clogging up the relief effort . As days pass and conditions continue to deteriorate, the Haitian waiting families are becoming desperate and are beginning to plan rescue missions on their own which are dangerous, since there are no commercial flights. WE beg the individual task forces to begin to play nice with one another and begin the immediate evacuation of our children.

Pictures of orphanage

Some adoption news

The agency has finally made contact. Hoping the children will be on there way home soon. I will continue to keep you updated on the latest news.

What is in a name?

A few people have asked if I will call her Aliette or Allie. Prior to the earthquake I was sure I wanted to change her name to Allie Paige, so it would flow better with my last name. When Aliette comes into the US she will not have a passport or visa, so I will become her legal guardian, rather than her mother. I will need to go through the adoption process here, but I have no idea what hoops I will need to jump through, how long it will take, or how much money will it cost. So, all of her papers will say Aliette B.... I love the name Aliette, but it is a tongue twister. I'm also torn because Haiti is in ruins and for now all Aliette has from her homeland is her name. Who am I to take that from her? So I'm leaning toward keeping her given name and using Allie as a nick name.

Blessings....

Going to take a moment from our regularly scheduled adoption topic to thank God for all the blessings He has showered me with today:

* Olivia and I got out of the house without a meltdown
* I meet with my Superindent and he told me he would help me in any way possible
* Aliette will have medical coverage from the moment she touches American soil
* I was able to get an appointment with my polarity specialist, my energy is flowing and my arms are no longer heavy (Heavenly rub was just what I needed)
* During Olivia's dancing class, I was given tips on basic hair care. We have a date to go shopping for lotions and potions in two weeks.
* Aliette's homecoming will be the feature story on the BBC news. How cool is that! Time to set my Tivo.
* I got 7 hours sleep last night. It was the first night I slept soundly and my ability to go with the flow has returned.
* Since I was more rested, I didn't shed one tear today. I think I even smiled and laughed.
* The adoption agency finally was able to communicate with the orphanage. We didn't get any updates on our children, but we also didn't hear that anyone was sick or have died.
* Looking forward to another early night and I'm putting out good thoughts, praying tomorrow will be the day they put Aliette in my arms.

My girls

Be strong Allie. We love you. We are all praying you home.

Another Earthquake hits Haiti

Can't cut a break. Another earthquake measuring 6.2 has hit Haiti. Still no news on Aliette or the other children from the orphanage. Good news, Aliette will have medical coverage as soon as she lands. Praise God! So much to do. I'll keep you posted.

Prayers

I know people are praying and interceding on our behalf because I feel the warmth and God's hand guiding me through, but what I need is the HEAR the prayers. You see I'm used up, wasted, a wet noodle. My prayers now consist of two, maybe three words: Help me Lord, Protect them, Sustain them, Have Mercy, Please Lord because that is all the strength I have. I realize these words are no less powerful, but when I hear your prayers, it refuels me and gives me Hope. So call me, leave a prayerful message or offer to pray w/me (warning: I may burst into tears, nerves shot), email me and share your prayer with me, leave a message on my blog or send a card w/ prayer. God is so good and He is worthy to be praised. I praise his name in good times and bad times, because HE is my comforter and my redeemer.

I am so blessed to have you all in my life.

Aliette

Last night my beautiful daughter was featured on a news story. Funny thing, the adoption agency needed my permission to share the photos, I gave it, but was so tired, failed to ask which news agency! Oh well. Since she is a celebrity and now the poster child for our plight, I would like to public share her pictures. I pray she has a fighting spirit who will overcome the odds and make it home safely. I'm waiting for you dear precious one. Come home to mommy soon, okay?

Grim update 8pm

The prayer candle light vigil was exactly what I needed. The entire santuary twinkled with light and Hope. As each day passes, our children's health and well being deteriorates. We feel powerless, overwhelmed with a flood of emotions from excitement to panic in a matter of moments.

UPDATE: Haiti Joint Council


It is once again my job to be the barrier of bad news. Another day come and gone and no change. Despite extensive Congressional support and all of your calls to your Members of Congress we have hit roadblock after roadblock. At this point we respectfully ask that you stop contacting your Members of Congress requesting their assistance with obtaining security, transportation, and water for the location. The Department of State has not and apparently will not provide the small assistance that we have requested.

Given the current circumstances, at this point we are recommending that someone from each orphanage escort the children who qualify for humanitarian parole or adoption visas to the U.S. Embassy in Port-A-Prince. We recommend that the orphanage staff arrive with the children and any adoption paperwork that has not been destroyed as early as possible in the morning in order to attempt to obtain visas or parole for the children. Please understand that this option may not be considered safe and that the U.S. Embassy did not allow some orphanages onto the premises today. Additionally, please note that it has been reported that there is no food, water or facilities for the children to use while at the Embassy. As noted during our conference call earlier today, these are our recommendations only and should not be used to replace your or your orphanage director's good judgement.

It is our understanding that any children processed by USCIS in Port-A-Prince are leaving on U.S. cargo jets to locations that are not often know until a hour or so before the flight leaves. At times children have left Haiti without the knowledge of their adoptive parents.

This is currently the worst case scenario for the children's well-being and safety but at the moment there are no other options.

As we receive more information we will continue to share it with you. While the situation at the moment is terrible I can only hope that our collective efforts produce some positive news. Despite the roadblocks Joint Council has not given up on the save haven and we continue to advocate for its creation and a more transparent and safe process in uniting these children with their adoptive families.

Rebecca

Prayer Vigil

It has been a long day, I'm really ready for a nap, but God willing I'm going to my church St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Shelton on the green for a brief but powerful prayer vigil. The service begins at 7 and is over by 7:30. Those who are local consider coming to pray and ask God to remove the final stumbling blocks so our children can home. FYI: I'm in desperate need of bear hugs.

My bags are packed and I'm ready to go

Today a phone conference for 10 am for all adoptive parents by the Joint Council. Unfortunately, the adoptive parents were all listening and signed in but they underestimated the band width and the administers couldn't come on. The conference took place an hour later at 11:00. This is what we learned:
* Conditions continue to deteriorate. They are committed to uniting all families with their children

* They have a secure location and would like to process all the children there instead of sending them to US Embassy

* Joint Council needs the OFDA (Office Of Human Disaster) to authorize NYC as the point of call. Currently children are put on cargo planes and parents are told where to go as they depart for the runway. Problem: If you are not standing at the door when the child land the child would be put in temporary foster care, but this should be only a day or two.

Waiting to hear, I'm basket case. Totally wiped out emotionally and physically but I have be very driven. In the past 48 hours, I have accomplished the following tasks:
* Gotten a hair cut and colored
* Power shopped for clothes, baby supplies, and hair products. My MLK Friends feel free to send hair hints and products
* Rearranged furniture
* Cleaned out closets
* Went on church retreat
* Went to see a dinner theater production of Hansel and Gretal
* Celebrated my brother's 33 Birthday: Happy Birthday Scott
* Set up Skype for Olivia-because I don't know where I going and for how long I'll be gone
* Made up mid terms for my students this week
* In the process of making sketchy sub plans. Sorry guys, whoever gets my gig is going to have to be creative, because I don't have much left

Again, thank you all for being supportive and praying Aliette home

She's coming home

All children that have been referred to American families are coming home. I don't have any specifics as to exactly when or where, but tonight I rejoice knowing that within a few days, Aliette will be safe and loved in her forever home. This past week has been such a roller coaster of emotion: joy to despair. My adoption agency tells me they are getting children out quickly, so I'm gather essentials like diapers, clothing, and food. Olivia came as a toddler, so I was clueless as I literally threw things into the shopping cart today. Live and learn.

Supplies on their way

Although there is no word on the children, I have learned that supplies (food, water, diapers, and formula) have been received or are on their way. This means that the orphanage has been located. I'm still waiting to hear about the Humanitarian Parole, the Joint council has made a plea directly to Hillary Clinton. She is in Haiti currently. Looting the orphanage food and supplies is a grave concern. Rejoicing tonight that Allie is alive, and praying she will be home soon.

Update from Joint Council

Joint Council Update
Humanitarian Parole It is the position of Joint Council that the U.S. government should immediately grant humanitarian parole to all Haitian children being adopted by a U.S. family. At present, Joint Council is appealing with the U.S. government, specifically the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), to issue humanitarian paroles for any child that has been referred to an American family. If DHS issues humanitarian paroles, the children would not need a visa to enter the U.S. and be united with you. This would minimize the paperwork and possibly eliminate the need to find documents, which have been destroyed in the earthquake. Given the urgent needs of the children and the fact that they have you, we believe that humanitarian parole is the most humane solution. We will continue to work this weekend and into next week to achieve this goal. Again, please remember that at this time, we do not have confirmation from the Department of Homeland Security regarding humanitarian parole, but we are working towards that goal.From our many, many meetings with Members of Congress, the Department of State and the Department of Homeland Security, we feel that you should know that your government is working very hard to find a solution which will help get your children into the safe, permanent and loving setting of your family.

Today's church retreat was exactly what I needed. A beautiful "warm" day, surrounded by caring prayer warriors. It was a time of self reflection and a time to count my blessings. It was a time to refuel. One of the break out sessions, I actually found a very comfy sofa and took a power nap. As you notice the time stamps on my posts, I'm not sleeping very much, so I really enjoyed my power nap. Although it was windy and cold sitting on a large stone by the water, I heard God weeping along with me. FYI As Olivia would say "My eyes are leaking." For the past few days, anything can set off the tears. They usually are short lived, but cleansing. I've decided it is not healthy to keep things bottled up so I'm letting it flow. I'm putting my trust in God that the government will work quickly and Allie will be in my arms sooner than later. I'm making lists of things I need to do before I leave and things I will need for Allie's arrival. Since I wasn't expecting her for another 2 years, you can see the problem. Don't worry the lists are growing and I'm sure there be something for everyone.

A few of you have asked about how Olivia handling this, she is great. After the retreat we went to the Downtown Cabaret to see Hansel and Greta. It was the best play I've seen in a long time, if you are in CT it is a must see. At the end of the performance instead of collecting money for their troop, all the money will be going to UNICEF. Two of their company was in Haiti visiting family, they have yet to hear about their safety. Please pray for there safety and safe return. At the end of the performance they sign autographs and Olivia showed each one her sister. She then followed it up by saying, there is a problem in her home and mommy is going to a meeting to bring her home. Out of the mouths of babes. Explanation: to avoid a meltdown and pleas to come w/ me, any time I do anything, I tell her I have to go to a meeting. She knows meetings are boring and you can't play or watch movies, so she has no desire to go with me. A little white lie, but one that avoids a melt down, I think God will forgive me.

I'll continue to keep you posted as news come in.
Much love and many blessings,
Nikki

Rumors

I needed to correct a past post, rumors seem to be spreading like wild fire. People desperate for information long for some solution which seems so obvious to us(waiting adoptive parent). For those who have never embarked on an international adoption, you have no idea what hoops, trials, and sweat we had to get to where are today, a referral of a child. We have devoted months, years, time, and resources to bringing home a Haitian child/children. Although I have never seen Allie or held her in my arms, I love her with all of my heart. She is my daughter and frankly I want her HOME NOW. I fear for her safety and well being if she has to stay in Haiti. I've contacted my senators, congressmen, Dept. of State, and my personal favorite Hillary and have begged them to cut through all the political red tape and make this happen. In a few hours, I leave for an all day church retreat and I will be surrounded by prayer warriors. Although, I have been in constant pray, I'm going to be free from distractions to listen. Listen for Gods healing touch, listen for what to do next, and surrender my worry/doubt to the one who can REALLY move mountains. Today, I rejoice that my daughter and her friends are alive and are being looked after by loving and compassionate people.

Latest news from orphanage

• I do ask this time that you make all donations on-line in order for us to process them faster but I also understand that some do not feel comfortable with PayPal so please continue to send your checks to our record address. (See below)
  
  if you would like to make a financial donation please visit our home page, in the blue box, www.buildingarizonafamilies.com This is a new request. Don't worry if you have already sent money the old fashion way, it will get there and all the money will go to the orphanage.
  
  Here is the communication I have from our Orphanage in Haiti:
• Currently no injuries or mortalies.
• Building needed to be evacuated because of the severe damage to the structure.
• We have a phone, but not always go through, but you can try
• We have no power and our generator has been damaged
• We need funds now to alleviate the expected food and other shortages
• Pray for all of us, God's mercy and grace

Leslie Maximilien

Government plea

I'm normally an early riser, but 3:30am is even early for me! Guess my lap top was calling my name and I needed to know if there was any news. There is some hope to report today. Possibility of humanitarian visa, but Allie doesn't have passport. The US government discussing a solution, but all this takes time.
My father is not normally a political guy, but within the past month he has wined and dined with both Sen. Dodd and Liberman. Why show favorites? I reached out to both senators and asked them to support measures to bring home ALL children who have been spoken for. Too many children have died and more will, if children have no place to go. This morning, I'm praying that my cries for help for my child and all those waiting will be heard. May those in power aide in this effort.

Haiti Update

Hello friends,
Thank you so much for your calls, cards, and emails. They mean so much to me and my daughters. I received word on Tuesday night that Allie is alive and for the moment safe. The conditions in Haiti are dire. Right now, it is too early to tell how this tragedy will impact my adoption. I'm assuming it will lengthen the process, but there is a chance she might be granted a humanitarian visa, but a Haitian passport is needed and she doesn't have one yet and there are no government buildings standing that can issue one. This is unlike other disaster there was a huge orphan problem prior to the earthquake and now the problem is magnified. So tonight I pray, that she will be able to come home sooner rather than later. With God anything is possible. I will use the blog to update the process. I haven't been doing such a good job about it because Olivia dropped my camera and I needed to buy another one and I hated it. It had too many dials and I couldn't make it do the simplest of things. I bought myself a new camera for Christmas, so I will be updating the site with pictures of Olivia. I am unable to post pictures of Allie online. Those of you who have gotten New Years' cards, please do NOT post pictures of her on the Internet as it might impact my adoption. Many of you have asked what you could do to help. Right now I ask you to pray that Allie will be able to come home on a humanitarian visa and for supplies to reach the orphanage.

Also, if you are able please consider sending a donation to my orphanage. 100% of the funds will go directly to rebuilding the orphanage and for needed supplies. The building was damaged during the quake.

Check made payable to Building Arizona Families and in the Memo field reference MDA or Haiti. Please mail all checks to:
Building Arizona Families
18449 West Ivy Lane
Surprise, Arizona 85388