Haiti (MNN) — Haiti is unraveling under gang control, pushing the nation closer to failed-state conditions.

A recent gang massacre in Haiti’s Artibonite region killed at least 70 people, destroyed more than 50 homes, and forced about 6,000 to flee. Even as National Police deploy armored vehicles, gangs controlling much of the capital continue their brutality, with instability spreading beyond Port-au-Prince.

“This is both a humanitarian crisis and a spiritual crisis,” says Brian Dennett with AMG International.

Families are living in constant fear. There have been kidnappings, shootings, and destruction of property — evidence of a broader collapse in Haiti, with very few basic services available. Hospitals have shut down due to the violence, and more than 1.4 million people have been displaced, fleeing their homes.

(Photo courtesy of AMG International)

As violence has overtaken the capital, many families have fled, heading south of Port-au-Prince.

“These regions, which were very quiet previously, are now pretty overwhelmed with all of these displaced people. And many of them are arriving with nothing,” adds Dennett.

As systems collapse, ministries are stepping in.

“We came up with a strategy with our team,” explains Dennett, “there to enter specific communities where there were a lot of displaced people.” They are providing food, clothing, water, and shelter while also establishing churches and hosting outreach.

The Gospel follows the aid. “People are are looking for hope. They’re looking for truth, and so as we come alongside and meet their most desperate needs, we are also sharing the love of Jesus and the Gospel with them,” says Dennett.

They have expanded Bible school work, equipping a new generation of pastors and leaders. Their hope is to reach tens of thousands of people with the Gospel, while also providing support during this difficult time.

“I think this is a really unique opportunity in Haiti for the church to rise up in a time where their systems really have collapsed,” adds Dennett.

Pray the Church will shine in the chaos, and that ministries have the resources to continue serving those in need.

Visit AMG International to partner with them in supporting the Haitian church.

 

Header photo courtesy of AMG International.