Haiti Now (Ayiti Now Corp)

Haiti Now (also known as Ayiti Now Corp) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to empowering Haitian girls living in domestic servitude, a practice known as "Restavek," to overcome poverty and exploitation and achieve economic security. The organization was founded by Alex Lizzappi in the aftermath of the 2010 Haiti earthquake.

The core of Haiti Now's work revolves around providing a safe and nurturing environment for these girls, who are often subjected to overwork, neglect, and abuse. The organization's vision is to help these girls heal from emotional trauma and lead fulfilling lives.

To achieve its mission, Haiti Now envision several key programs:

• Housing & Learning Center: This is a central component of our vision, combining a safe house and a school in one facility. The center will provide shelter, an accelerated education program, mental and emotional health support, mentoring, and opportunities for artistic and athletic activities.
• Accelerated Education: This program is designed to help the girls catch up on their education, enabling them to earn a 6th-grade diploma in three years. The curriculum includes modern technology and financial literacy.
• Business Incubation: This program equips the girls with vocational skills and business knowledge, including planning, asset training, and access to micro-loans to help them build economically secure futures.

Haiti Now's approach is holistic, addressing not only the educational and economic needs of the girls but also their physical and mental well-being. The organization emphasizes child protection and will provide a supportive community to help the girls heal from trauma and develop self-esteem.

The term "Restavek" comes from the French "rester avec," meaning "to stay with." It describes a phenomenon where children from impoverished families are sent to live with relatives or other families in the hope of a better life but often end up as domestic servants. Haiti Now is committed to breaking this cycle of poverty and abuse by providing these girls with the tools and support they need to build independent and successful lives.