On many occasions, staff members have not been able to travel to work at the field office because of violence and insecurities on the roads. During many of these trips, armed guards have been necessary to ensure the safety of the staff. Increasing political instability, economic decline and violence hampers CCFC from effectively doing our work. The Government of Canada recently issued one of its most alarming travel advisories through the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade on March 20, 2001. Political instability persists.
Criminal activity continues to increase throughout the country.
Personal safety cannot be guaranteed by local authorities. Christian Children's Fund of Canada's Board of Directors is extremely concerned about these high risk factors and has made the decision that our work in Haiti will cease effective July 2001. We ask for your continued support and prayers as Christian Children's Fund of Canada and our Haitian programs make this adjustment. In the years since 1990, many improvements have been made for the children. Through the sponsorship support, Christian Children's Fund of Canada has provided much needed educational, medical, and nutritional assistance for the children.