Thinking About BRESMA

Ever since the sun went down tonight, I can’t stop thinking about Jaime and Ali. Two women…in the dark…in the middle of chaos…carrying for children. I have been obsessively checking Twitter for updates from JanePitt.

Jaime (30) and Ali (21) are Pittsburgh natives who run an orphanage in Haiti. They care for about 150 children. You can read more about their work here.

We all know what happened this week in Haiti and these women (and the children they care for) are in dire need of help. They have given up the opportunity to return to the US to stay with the children, so that they have a chance and a future. I can not think of a more selfless act.

As of this evening, the plans to evacuate them and the children are still moving forward. However, they are out of water. The children will not survive without it.

So what can you do?

1. If you know ANYONE who could possibly help them, please email Virginia (virginia [at] thatschurch [dot] com).

2. Call or email your senator and your congressman.  Write to all of them if you can.  Light a fire under them to do what is necessary to expedite the process for granting humanitarian parole for ALL of Haiti’s orphans.

3. You can donate to the BRESMA orphanage by clicking here.

4. If you are in the Pittsburgh area and would like to donate items for the children, below is a list of what they need.

• diapers (infant, baby, toddler)
• powdered baby formula
• crackers/snacks (appropriate for small children)
• warm coats/winter clothes/shoes (baby, toddler, children)
• bottled water

You can drop off items after 11 am at 1212 West North Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15233.  Please proceed through the gate. Leave your donations in the right front apartment (1212) on the first floor.  The doors will be unlocked.  There will be a sign that says “BRESMA Donations”. 


**Updated – For the time being, they are asking that you no longer drop off donations to the 1212 location. This is a temporary change. There will be a need for additional donations in the near future. Virginia at That ‘s Church will update when the time comes.

5. Pray…for everyone.

I am hoping and praying for these women and children. I hope that when the sun rises on them tomorrow, it will be a better day.

*For updates on Jaime and Ali, follow @JanePitt on Twitter or check her blog here.