Editor's note: In areas plagued by poverty, live shopkeepers, seamstresses and bakers are emerging success stories made possible by the Boca Grande Hope for Haitians Committee and Food For The Poor.
Over seven weeks, the Gasparilla Gazette will publish seven stories of success from the Boca Grande Friendship Villages of Pierre Payen and Michaud, Haiti: ??
Boca Grande Hope for Haitians Committee success story No. 2
Article Photos
Ben Scott
Big-hearted donors from Boca Grande came to their rescue, building a house for Magalie and one for her daughter and her children. ??
Prior to receiving her new home, Magalie did not have a job or income that could help her start an enterprise. A donor provided $20 to help her start selling small goods in front of the village school. ??
She eventually started purchasing her goods from a candies and chips wholesaler. When the wholesaler saw Magalie coming back on a regular basis for more goods, he realized she was serious so he gave her merchandise to sell on an installment plan.??
Fact Box
To Go
Who: Chairman Ben Scott
What: Boca Grande Committee at a reception
When: Feb. 21
Where: Gasparilla Inn Beach Club, 445 Gilchrist Ave.
Why: Plans will be revealed for Boca Grande Friendship Village III in Manneville, Haiti
Boca Grande Hope for Haitians Committee
Committee members include: Ben and Louise Scott, the Revs. Gary Beatty, Brian Brightly, Jerome Carosella and Read Heydt, George and Lois Castrucci, Patricia Chapman, Ray and Iliene Corcoran, Charlie and Florita Field, Evelyn Finnegan, Lou and Corie Fusz, Stephen and Susan Jansen, Tom and Nancy Lorden, Colvin and Madelaine McCrady and Peter and Elsa Soderberg.
Today, Magalie has a large, thriving open-air boutique where she sells her wares, and has become an inspiration for many others who used to be in her situation.???????
Next week: Elienise used to burn charcoal just to eat. Thanks to the Boca Grande Hope for Haitians Committee, she has a real home and a richer life.
