Maddie & Jay's Mission to Haiti

I was in no way prepared for my first mission's trip last year- not by a longshot. I wasn't ready for the trash-ridden streets, political strife, poverty, or malnutrition; but I was especially unprepared for the people of Haiti that captured my heart.

I hope you will help me and my dad to again be able to share the good news of Jesus Christ with the people of Haiti! Once we arrive, we will assist in the repair, and renovation of the New Life orphanage, ensuring the disabled and orphaned children of Haiti have shelter, and hope of finding a family. We will also distribute food and supplies to the surrounding area, while telling the locals about Jesus.

Personally, I am the team's "artist" and I have found there is no faster way to make friends than to paint a flower on a child's arm, or a soccer ball on a hand.  

Last year, my first encounters with orphans from the local orphanages were more reserved in the beginning. The children are quite shy and a bit intimidated by the "blancos", as they call us. It also dosen't help that I am not fluent in Creole. However, I do speak art quite well, and am handy with a paintbrush.  So, I plopped myself onto the dirt floor with my paints, and asked the translator, Ron-Jonny, to tell the kids I would like to paint them. One brave soul flashed a toothy smile, and sat in front of me, arm extended, ready to be painted. I smiled and began my work painting their beautiful skin with colorful birds, sea creatures, or fruits. The tone of the room changed instantly, from children hiding behind caretakers, to kids hugging team members while squealing with delight.

As far as my father, this will be his first mission's trip with me.  He's a jack of all trades and can fix virtually anything. His skills will be rendered invaluable on this trip as he and the other dads serve the community with muscle and skill.

This trip is not just aimed at spreading the love of Jesus to one of the poorest countries, it is also a bonding experience  for me and my father. I am graduating high school in a week, and this is my last summer experience to have with him before I go off to college. Because of my father's rigorous work schedule, he could not go with me last year, but he is able to this year.

Your donation* would not only mean the world to me and my father, but also to the people of Haiti that we will be serving. I hope you will join me on this trip to bring love and hope to the people of Haiti. We leave July 8th, 2017! 

Many thanks,
Madison Hedegard

PS I'll be updating this account with photos and daily updates when I can while we are in Haiti. Please stay tuned!

*Donations are tax deductible 
You can also donate directly through Christ Fellowship. It takes a few more steps. Click the link below and you can select either Jason or Madison's name: https://christfellowship.managedmissions.com/Donations/Donate/20376