Moving On Chapter 2

George and Christine began in 1976 with a handful of deaf children, transferred from E.S.V., on an unused campground just south of the area of Montrouis.  Since then the Haitian Christian Center for the Deaf (HCCD) has developed into a multi-faceted, co-educational complex after returning to the Port-au-Prince area.   Most of the children come from the rural parts of Haiti.  The parents sometimes travel up to 100 miles to get to the center.  The child usually can not communicate very well when they arrive, so therefore we must first establish communication in order to help them learn new things here at the center.  It does not take them very long to fit into the program and they soon become happy students scurrying around the campus.   With a resident capacity of 200+ children ranging in age from five and up, a four-fold program is diligently carried on.  With a primary concern for the Body, Mind, and Soul; HCCD accepts children who are totally unprepared to face the realities of a soundless world. The French name of the Center is:  Centre Haitien Chretien Pour les Sourds.  We are known in Haiti by the abbreviation of C.H.C.S. 

THE PROGRAM OF HCCD 

The program of HCCD teaches the children to Read, Write, Communicate, and a Profession.  The method of “Total Communication” is used in teaching these children.  Through a unique blend of specially trained Haitian teachers and North American Volunteers, a frustrated young child can be assisted on life’s journey.  From the age of five to the completion of the program, children are gently guided through the four-fold program. 

THE SPIRITUAL PART 

Out of the darkness brought on by the world, all of the children at HCCD are introduced to a Personal, Loving, and Caring Christ.  Whether through the Sunday Chapel Service, the morning devotions, or the Staff, the Love of God is presented.  Today, the Deaf can worship alongside the hearing congregation as interpreters translate in “Sign Language” the service for their benefit. 

THE EDUCATIONAL PART 

The road to Educational Achievement is direct with the children advancing at their own speed.  Recognized courses such as History, Arithmetic, Spelling, Reading, and Social Studies are taught to an eager to learn Student Body.  HCCD starts a child in the Kindergarten and carries him or her through the Academic Program and then transfers the student to the Vocational Program. 

THE VOCATIONAL PART 

Some children can benefit most from the Professional Classes in Basket Weaving, Carpentry, Sewing, Tailoring, Auto Mechanics, and the other subjects being taught. 

THE PHYSICAL PART 

Before any child can give full attention to learning, the discomfort of hunger must be made a memory.  HCCD provides balanced meals along with medical supervision.  One can see a drastic physical change over a short period of time in the children at HCCD.  Children who were suffering from malnutrition become well adjusted and are able to return home healthy and vibrant.

 Updated May 28, 2008