FAQ FOR ALL VOLUNTEERS - Midwives For Haiti

FAQ FOR ALL VOLUNTEERS

FAQ FOR ALL VOLUNTEERS

Got questions? We have answers!

Sounds great! How much does it cost?

The first week of your stay is $895, while subsequent weeks are $595.

What does my fee include?

Your fee covers your transport to and from the airport, the cost of a translator for your entire stay, your lodging at our in country headquarters in Hinche, all food and drinks (excepting beer, rum, and soda which is available for an additional charge), your transportation to and from any off site projects, and any cultural immersion activities you choose, unless there is an admission fee.

What does it not include?

Your flight and $10 Haitian tourist fee, personal spending money, and any small entry fees to offsite local immersion experiences, Kreyol lessons, rum, beer and soda.

Can I fundraise for my trip?

Of course! Many of our volunteers involve their friends and family in their volunteer experience. Fundraising not only helps offset your costs, but spreads the word about the valuable mission of MFH. Once you have collected your funds you can mail the check to the MFH address below or Pay using the Volunteer Program Fees form. For more information around this, please get in touch with Brett, our finance director at finance@midwivesforhaiti.org.

Midwives For Haiti
7130 Glen Forest Dr., Suite 101
Richmond, VA 23226

How do I apply?

We’re excited to meet you! Please fill out the application form located here. Our Volunteer Coordinator will be in touch to schedule a phone interview to better gauge your interests in volunteering. A non- refundable deposit of $200 is due when your trip is approved. The remainder is due four weeks before your confirmed travel dates.

Who is eligible?

Medical volunteers must have at least one year of experience making clinical decisions in a clinical environment. We welcome people with a development mindset, who enjoy teaching and learning as much as providing direct service delivery. Non-medical volunteers shall discuss their role with the appropriate department head before making travel arrangements. Flexibility, humility and compassion are a must!

Do I need to have prior global health or international work experience?

No! We are delighted to welcome you to the world of overseas work.

Where do I fly into?

Our MFH driver will meet you at the Cap Haitien International Airport. He will be wearing a MFH shirt and you will be given a photo of him ahead of time. He will drive you the two hours to Hinche.

What is the MFH volunteer house like?

Our house is a large, typically Haitian building, which also houses the Nadene Brunk Eads School. Depending on the number of volunteers at any given time, you will most likely be sharing a comfortable room with mosquito nets provided. There is no hot water, but the weather in Haiti can be quite warm, so this is not too much of an issue. Laundry services are provided twice a week, and all meals are included. The water in our town is not potable, so bring a water bottle to fill from our safe water coolers. Several of our international staff live onsite full time, so you will never be lonely!

Can I request a placement if I am drawn to a certain aspect of your program?

Absolutely!

We encourage people to play to their strengths. You can also mix and match our programs for a personalized experience. It may help to be flexible with your travel dates, in case we are booked for the site you desire.

Are there restrictions on sites requirements?

Only midwives are allowed at the Carrie Wortham Birth Center, due to its remoteness and the characteristics of our population there. Nurses, doctors and other healthcare professionals are welcome at our other sites.

Is it safe?

Haiti is an under resourced area with a turbulent history. Civil unrest can pop up at any time. However, the safety of our volunteers is our highest priority, and we will not hesitate to cancel volunteer trips if we feel we cannot keep you safe. All volunteers must carry trip and medical insurance when they book. This is usually cheap and often offered at the time you book your flights. If it is not, you can compare insurance packages here: https://www.insuremytrip.com/

What happens if my trip is cancelled?

We are all disappointed when a trip must be cancelled. If MFH cancels your trip for any reason, you are welcome to carry your fees over to a later date, or receive a full refund. If you must cancel your trip for personal reasons, fees can again be held over or refunded, minus the $200 deposit.

Who can I contact for other questions, or more information?

Our volunteer coordinator, Anna, is here for you! Please email her at volunteer@midwivesforhaiti.org to begin your volunteer journey. She will be in close contact with you as you plan your trip, and your point person once you arrive on the ground in Haiti. She will arrange your translators, orient you to Hinche, and generally look after you. She is onsite 24/7, so you will always have a friend here.