Haiti Creates is a new brand and line of products made by Haitians who own
and run their own small factory in Cite Soleil– one of Port au Prince,
Haiti’s most challenging and materially impoverished communities.
Sustainability on every level is at the heart of Haiti Creates.. The purpose of
the factory is to generate sustainable income with which to support the school
and the workers and their families. The factory is run by solar power, and
the products are made out of recycled materials.
The goal of this social enterprise is to provide employment that breaks cycles of dependency and charity and to empower the community to be financially sustainable and independent.
Haiti Creates products are made at a factory which is located within the footprint of Cite Soleil Community School (CSCS). CSCS provides an elementary school education and daily meal program for people who otherwise would not be able to attend school at all or eat on a regular basis.
Haiti Creates workers are community members and parents of the children at the school. The factory provides work, supports the school, and represents a commitment to move from charity to sustainable development. The factory is solar powered and products, as much as possible, are made from discarded items and materials that can be recycled rather than thrown into canals full of trash.
Most products are made from discarded rice and flour bags, plastic water bags, and recycled cardboard. The creative workforce is constantly making new products and seeking ways to turn trash and refuse into items that are useful and beautiful.
