Got questions? We have answers!

Why We Do This Work

PartoRD is a grassroots birth justice initiative based in Cabarete, on the north coast of the Dominican Republic. Together with Midwives for Haiti, we provide compassionate, community-centered care to Haitian and Dominican women. Many of our clients are teenagers, migrants, or living in deep poverty.

As Haiti has fallen deeper into crisis, thousands of families have fled to the DR. But instead of safety, many women have been met with fear, deportation, and systemic neglect. Immigration agents have raided hospitals. Women have been detained while in labor or recovering postpartum. Babies have been separated from their mothers. Families have been forced into hiding.

The historical relationship between Haiti and the Dominican Republic is complex and often marked by racism, exclusion, and inequity. We name that history. But we do not let it define our care.

At PartoRD and Midwives for Haiti, we serve everyone. Haitian. Dominican. Documented or not. We offer care with dignity, respect, and love. Always.

A Cross-Border Partnership for Birth Justice

This project is a collaboration between PartoRD and Midwives for Haiti, two organizations working to expand access to respectful, community-based maternity care in the Caribbean.

PartoRD leads the clinical care in and around Cabarete, offering mobile prenatal and postpartum services to Haitian and Dominican families. Their team is deeply connected to the community and focused on more than just filling gaps. They are working to transform what maternity care looks like in the Dominican Republic. Their goal is bold but simple: care that is safe, culturally informed, and centered on the dignity of every woman.

Midwives for Haiti is based in Hinche, in the Plateau Central of Haiti, and brings nearly 20 years of experience in maternal health. This includes program development, clinical care, and volunteer coordination. MFH supports this initiative by managing volunteer recruitment, onboarding, and logistics so the PartoRD team can focus on direct service.

Together, we are building a partnership rooted in respect, shared expertise, and a commitment to birth justice across borders.

Who are your clients?

We serve Haitian and Dominican women, many of whom:

– Are teenagers or very young mothers

– Are recent migrants fleeing violence

– Live in extreme poverty

– Fear deportation, arrest, or separation from their babies

Some clients speak only Spanish. Others speak Haitian Kreyòl. Some speak both. All of them deserve safe, loving, competent care.

What kind of care do you provide?

We operate a mobile, community-based model. There is no formal clinic. Instead, we bring prenatal and postpartum services directly into homes and shared community spaces. We also hold monthly group prenatal care sessions, which provide support, education, and connection.

Midwifery volunteers may deliver babies at patients’ homes, so homebirth knowledge and experience is a huge plus.

Every day looks a little different. Expect warm weather, humble conditions, lots of walking, and meaningful connection.

What support will I receive?

You will never be dropped into the community alone.

On arrival, you’ll get a simple orientation to the work, the neighborhood, and the rhythm of our days. Our team communicates daily, and someone is always reachable for questions, guidance, or support.

Who can volunteer?

We are currently seeking:

• Credentialed midwives (CPM, CNM, LM, etc.)
• Experienced doulas who can support births confidently and independently
• Childbirth educators
• Lactation consultants

This is not a training program. It is hands-on, real-world care. We need steady, compassionate people who can adapt quickly and support respectfully.

This program is best suited to flexible, grounded volunteers who are comfortable adapting to a community-based setting.

How long can I volunteer?

Any length of time is welcome.

– One week? Absolutely.

– A month or longer? Even better.

– Just a few days between other commitments? We will make it work.

You may be on call some nights during your stay, depending on client flow.

Do I need to speak Spanish or Haitian Kreyòl?

No.

Our team includes trained interpreters who will support you in all client interactions. Whether your client speaks Spanish, Kreyòl, or both, you will be supported every step of the way.

Where will I stay?

Volunteers stay in a comfortable, home-style guesthouse in Cabarete, shared with other volunteers and staff. Lodging includes basic meals and a peaceful space to rest and recharge.

Can I bring my family?

Yes, for an extra fee. We are happy to make a bespoke volunteer quotation depending on the size of your group.

Partners, children, and chosen family are welcome. Please let us know in advance so we can plan accommodations.

What does it cost to volunteer?

The required program fee is $700 per week.

This fee includes:

• Comfortable housing
• Local transportation
• Interpreter and staff support
• Meals
• Volunteer coordination and logistics
• Airport transfers

This is not a donation. It is what makes the program possible. Your fee directly supports clinical services, helps pay staff, and keeps care flowing to women who need it most.

A short packing list will be provided after you apply.

Where do I fly into?

You can fly into:

• Puerto Plata (POP) – about 30 minutes from Cabarete
• Santiago (STI) – around an hour away

We will help coordinate airport pickup from either location. Puerto Plata is the easiest and most cost-effective option.

What kind of work will I be doing?

You will be part of a team offering deeply personal, community-centered care. You may be:

• Visiting prenatal or postpartum clients in their homes
• Supporting monthly group prenatal gatherings
• Attending births wherever they occur
• Providing emotional support to young or vulnerable clients

Every day is different. You may be sitting on a plastic chair under a mango tree or helping a client through early labor in a shared bedroom. The conditions are humble. The impact is real.

Is this safe?

While nothing in life is 100% safe, Cabarete is a peaceful, welcoming town on the north coast of the Dominican Republic. You will receive simple but clear guidance on staying oriented, getting around, and feeling confident during your stay.

How do I sign up?

Email us at queries@midwivesforhaiti.org to apply or learn more.

We will send you a brief form to learn about your background and availability and guide you through the next steps.