TH E F U LLE R CE NTE R FOR H OUS I NG
HAI T I GU I D E BOOK
CRO IX- D E S - BO U Q U E T S
Updated July 2014
[email protected] | 229.924.2900
GLOBAL BUILDERS
HAITI
I NTRODU C T I ON | 2
Welcome from Fuller Center For Housing Haiti
This guidebook contains useful information about Haiti and The Fuller Center for Housing. Please spend some time
looking over the contents of this packet. Many of your questions will be answered within these pages.
“Working with others is addictive.
Now, I am always thinking about
the smiles on the kids I have played
soccer with or the hugs I have
shared with new homeowners.”
-Rob, Haiti volunteer
Dear Global Builder Team Members,
We want to welcome each of you to The Fuller Center for Housing and the
Global Builders Haiti team. It is because of people like you that we are able
to provide adequate shelter for people in need not only in Haiti but also
worldwide. By taking the step to travel to Haiti you are opening up the door
for your heart to change. We know that your participation in the building
experience will be both personally rewarding and eye-opening as you work
alongside your Global Builders team members, local participants, and
homeowner family members.
We at The Fuller Center for Housing greatly appreciate your willingness
to participate as a team member in our endeavor to eliminate substandard
housing in Haiti and across the world. Make sure to plan for an unforgettable
cultural and spiritual experience!
GLOBAL BUILDERS
HAITI
TABLE
I NTRODU
OF CONTE
C T I ON NT S | 3
Background information
General Information About the Fuller Center and Our Founders................................................................4
Country Information: Background, Housing Conditions, Area Info........................................................5-7
Logistics
Area Information: Currency, Weather..........................................................................................................8
Emergency Contact Information..................................................................................................................8
Travel Logistics: Visa Requirements and Embassy Information..................................................................9
Accommodations: Meals, Lodging, Transportation, Security, etc..............................................................10
Safety
Worksite Safety Tips....................................................................................................................................11
Centers for Disease Control Travel Tips......................................................................................................12
Department of State Safe Travel Tips..........................................................................................................13
Long-Term Impact
Country Champions Program....................................................................................................................14
Packing Lists
Individual Packing List..............................................................................................................................15
Group Packing List.....................................................................................................................................16
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ Overview.......................................................................................................................................17-19
Travel Insurance
Benefit Guide.............................................................................................................................................20
Coverages and Claim Submission........................................................................................................21-22
Language Guide
Common Words, Questions, and Phrases to Know..............................................................................23-24
GLOBAL BUILDERS
HAITI
TH E F U LLE R CE NTE R | 4
Millard Fuller & The Fuller
Center for Housing History
Millard Fuller was an ambitious and
driven business man. By age 29 he
was a millionaire. But in 1965, his life
took a dramatic turn when his wife,
Linda, told him she was leaving him. Together, they resolved to save their
marriage, give away their fortune to
help the poor and focus their lives
toward God’s work with a renewed
and exciting sense of purpose. At
Koinonia Farm, the Fullers were
inspired by down-home Christian
philosopher Clarence Jordan, who
inspired the principles behind
their movement that homes for the
poor should be built and sold at no
profit and without interest charged.
(Exodus 22:25). In 1976, they founded
Habitat for Humanity, which has
to date, built or renovated 400,000
homes worldwide for more than 2
million people.
In 2005, the Fullers once again started
over and launched The Fuller Center
for Housing, which is currently
building and renovating homes in
14 countries and 55 communities in
the United States. Working toward a
mission to help the more than 1 billion
people worldwide who live in poverty
housing and the 100 million who are
homeless, the Fullers’ extraordinary
commitment and legacy continues
today through the hearts and hands of
hundreds of thousands of volunteers
who seek to build a better world, one
house at a time. Foundation Principles:
- We are part of a God movement, and movements don’t just stop.
Mission Statement
The Fuller Center for Housing,
faith-driven and Christ-centered,
promotes collaborative and innovative
partnerships with individuals and
organizations in an unrelenting quest
to provide adequate shelter for all
people in need worldwide.
- We have been called to this housing ministry; we didn’t just stumble into it.
- We are unashamedly Christian, and enthusiastically ecumenical.
- We aren’t a church but we are a servant of the Church.
- We are faith-driven, knowing that after we’ve done all we can do the Lord
will help finish the job - something that requires us to stretch beyond our
rational reach.
- We are a grassroots ministry, recognizing that the real work happens on the
ground in communities around the world through our covenant partners, so a
large, overseeing bureaucracy isn’t needed.
- We try to follow the teachings of the Bible and believe that it says that we
shouldn’t charge interest of the poor, so we don’t.
- Government has a role in our work in helping set the stage, but we shouldn’t
look to it as a means to fund the building of homes.
GLOBAL BUILDERS
HAITI
FCH HAI T I | 5
Housing Needs:
Haiti has long been the poorest country in the western hemisphere. In a country with few building inspectors and poor
construction techniques, it was only a matter of time before tragedy struck.
When that tragedy appeared in the form of the January 2010 earthquake, the results were devastating. Thousands of
buildings collapsed, killing 200,000 people and leaving well over a million people living in tent camps. The quake
impacted some 3 million people in a country of 9 million.
Today, tens of thousands are still living in tents and permanent housing is Haiti’s greatest need. Our volunteers are
helping Haitians get back on their feet by building highly earthquake and hurricane resistant houses.
Fuller Center Houses:
In the community of Croix-des-Bouquets The Fuller Center for Housing has formed a convenant partner with Homes
from the Heart. This convenant partner works hard with infill homes throughout the community. The homes are
simple, single-room homes for each Haitian family. The houses are about 250 square feet and have a single-sloped roof
to enable future expansion. However, the size does depend on the number of family members. Duplexes and triplexes
are also built depending on the land available. The homes are modest but permanent and economical. Each home
supports the local economy through the purchase of locally-available materials and the hiring of Haitian labor. The
walls are made of cement blocks with a stucco overlay.
GLOBAL BUILDERS
HAITI
FCH HAI T I | 6
Guidony and Ternelia Guillaume with
their daughter Eunice stand in front of
their new Fuller Center home
An estimated one million people like
the Guillaumes were displaced after
the earthquake. But with the help of
the Fuller Center, the Guillaumes were
able to build a new home.
Partner Families:
The Fuller Center seeks to offer an opportunity, not a hand-out. As such,
families are required to own their own land and partner by suppling their
own labor, termed sweat equity, into their home. During the building of their
home at least 3 to 4 family members must be present to help with the building
process at all times. Homes are usually completed within 1 to 2 weeks.
GLOBAL BUILDERS
I N FO ABOUT HAI T I ~| 7
HAITI
Demographic Statistics
Education System:
(CIA World Factbook)
Haiti does have a free education
system, however, over 75% of the
educational programs in the country
are offered by either private and/
or parochial schools. Even though
public education is free only 65% of
children are ever enrolled in primary
school and only 55% in secondary
school. From the 55% of the children
only 63% will even complete their
secondary education.
Population: 9,719,932 (2011 est.)
Nationality:
Noun: Haitian(s), Adjective: Haitian
Age Structure:
(2010 est.)
0-14 years: 38.1% (male 1,735,917;
female 1,704,383)
Foreign Trade:
15-64 years: 58.5% (male
2,621,059; female 2,665,447)
65 years and over: 3.4% (male
120,040; female 188,690)
Haiti, on the island Hispaniola
Life Expectancy at Birth:
(2011 est.)
Total population: 62.17 years
Male: 60.84 years
Female: 63.53years
Median Age:
(2010 est.)
Total: 21.1 years
Male: 20.9 years
Female: 21.4 years
Population growth rate: 0.787%
(2011 est.)
Languages:
Foreign trade represents around
50% of Haiti’s GDP. This comes
with the low cost from customs as
well as being free from many trade
barriers. In 2009, $524 million
dollars were received from exports
of oil, cocoa, coffee, clothing and
fruit such as mangoes. Around 70%
of these exports come directly to
United States.
French (official)
Religions:
Haitian Creole (official) – A
combination of French Creole
with African, Spanish, and
Taíno influences
Roman Catholic – 80%
Spanish (non-official)
Protestant – 16%
(Baptist 10%, Pentecostal 4%,
Adventist 1%, other 1%)
Other – 3%
None – 1%
Literacy:
(2008 est)
Birth rate: 24.4 births / 1,000
population (2011 est.)
Definition: Age 15 and over that can
read and write
Death rate: 8.21 deaths / 1,000
population (2011 est.)
Total Population: 61.0%
Male: 63.8%
Female: 58.3%
Ethnic Groups:
Black 95%,
Mulatto and White 5%
GLOBAL BUILDERS
HAITI
AREA INFORMATION | | 8
Money
Haiti Emergency Contacts
Weather
The official currency of Haiti
is the gourde, which has a
variable exchange rate (currently
approximately 40 gourdes to the U.S.
dollar). Visitors will notice that most
establishments in Haiti price items in
an unofficial currency known as the
“Haitian dollar.” (One Haitian dollar
is equivalent to five gourdes.) Others
give prices in gourdes or even in U.S.
dollars. It is always a good idea to
clarify with vendors which currency
-- the gourde, Haitian dollar, or U.S.
dollar -- is being used in a given
transaction, as price tags often bear a
number without indicating currency.
Michael Bonderer
November – March
Day: 70s to 80s
Nights: 60s to 70s
Currency Exchange
mbonderer@fullercenter.
org
Skype: michael.bonderer
June – August
Day: 80s to 90s
Redeem Dieudonne
Rain Season:
May – July
[email protected]
Cell: 011-509-3641-3019
Hurricane Season:
July – October
U.S. Emergency Contacts
Church Dress
Ryan Iafigliola
Men: Men are expected to wear dress
pants (not jeans), and they often wear
a necktie. Men do not wear hats or
shorts in church.
Dir. of Int.l Field Operations
[email protected]
US Cell: 440.829.1345
$1 US Dollar = 40 Haitian Gourde
Office: 229.924.2900
Local Emergency Numbers
David Snell
Fire: 114
Fuller Center President
Police: 114
[email protected]
Ambulance: 118
US Cell: 229.942.2861
Phone Facts
Mobile phone calls within
Haiti
Dial xxxx-xxxx
Calling Haiti from the U.S.
Landlines: 011-509-2xxx-xxxx
Cell phone: 011-509-3xxx-xxxx or
011-509-4xxx-xxxx
Calling U.S. from Haiti
Dial 00 + 1 + (xxx) xxx-xxxx
Office: 229.924.2900
Women: Women are expected to
wear a skirt or dress and do not wear
pants, shorts, low cuts, or any exotic
wear. It is also customary that ladies
wear a head covering - a simple hat
will do - in services.
Haitian Traditional Foods
Du riz a pois (Rice and Beans)
Du riz a poulet (Rice with Chicken)
U.S. Embassy - Haiti
Soup Joumou (Squash Soup)
Tabarre 41,
Route de Tabarre
Port-au-Prince, Haiti
Tassot et Banane Pesé (Fried Goat
and Plantains)
Telephone: 011-509-2229-8000
Lodging
after hours Emergencies:
011-509-2229-8122
Fax: 011-509-2-229-8027
Villa Mamika
#3, Duval 24, val des lauriers
Croix-des-Bouquets, Haiti
Phone: 001-786-220-3095
GLOBAL BUILDERS
HAITI
LOG I S T I C S I | 9
Visa
Individuals with a United States or Canadian passport are not required to hold a tourist visa. However, there is a $10
tourist tax that you will need to pay upon entering the country.
Foreigner’s Registration at their Embassies
All foreigners residing in or visiting Haiti are strongly encouraged to register with their Embassy. Our Global Builders
program registers all American volunteers with the U.S. Embassy. For contacts please see below. Registration helps the
Embassy provide important services to their citizens abroad. This includes: issuing a replacement passport, locating
individuals in cases of family emergencies, relaying important travel and safety information about the region, and other
administrative services related to personal documentation.
Embassy of the United States
of America
British Honorary
Consulate
Tabarre 41,
Route de Tabarre
Port-au-Prince, Haiti
337 Route de Delmas
72-73,
Port-au-Prince, Haiti
2 Impasse Claudinette,
Pétionville
P.O. Box 1147
Port-au-Prince, Haiti
Telephone: 011-509-2229-8000
Telephone: 011-509-3744-6371
Telephone: (+509-1) 257-6131
Fax: 011-509-2-229-8027
Register at: www.locate.fco.
gov.uk/locateportal/
Fax: (+509-1) 257-4131
Website: travelregistration.
state.gov/ibrs/ui/
The Fuller Center office will register
each Global Builders participant with
a U.S. passport. There is no need for
individuals with U.S. passports to
register twice.
The Consulate of Canada
Delmas between Delmas 75 & 71
Porti-au-Prince, Haiti
Phone: (509) 249-9000
Fax: (509) 249-9920 (Embassy)
and (509) 249-9928 (Immigration)
Email:
[email protected]
Web Site:
www.canadainternational.
gc.ca/haiti/
*LOCATE is a free service provided
by the Foreign and Commonwealth
Office for British nationals travelling
to or living outside of the United
Kingdom. The details you provide
when you register will help our
embassy and crisis staff contact you
and give you better assistance in
an emergency such as a natural or
manmade disaster or civil disturbance
Office of Overseas
Citizens
For use by your family if they need
to reach you for an emergency back
home and don’t want to call an
international number. Learn more
on page 12:
1-888-407-4747 (business hours)
202-647-5225 (after hours)
Embassy of Germany
Email:
[email protected]
Embassy of France
51 rue Capois
BP 1312
Port au Prince, Haiti
Phone: +509-29-99-9000
+509-29-99-9018
Fax: +509-29-99-9001
Email: [email protected]
Website:
www.ambafrance-ht.org/
GLOBAL BUILDERS
HAITI
ACCOM MODAT I ON F| 10
Meals
Transportation
All three meals are included in the trip cost. Breakfast and dinner will be
served at the hotel while lunch will be brought directly to the build site. We
strongly advise groups that for food safety reasons all meals should come from
country hosts and not purchased from street vendors.
Members of a team should
coordinate their flights with the help
of their team leader. All members
should arrive within 90 minutes
of each other - ideally on the same
flight. Participants need to arrive
before 2:00 pm to avoid being on
the road at night in Haiti. Therefore
it is important that flights are
coordinated with the team leader to
ensure that they arrive together.
Drinking Water
Water in Haiti is not clean and should not be consumed by foreigners.
Drinking water will be provided by Homes from the Heart at the build site
and at the housing facilities. The water is provided in a cooler so it is important
to bring a water bottle with you. When traveling, make sure not to drink
anything with ice, because ice is usually made with unclean water.
Airport:
Bathroom Facilities
Port-au-Prince (PAP)
Public restrooms often do not have toiletries so please bring a couple of small
packages of Kleenex with you.
All members must arrive before 2:00
p.m.
Basic facilities are provided at the build site and at your housing options.
Shower facilities do not always have hot/warm water so be prepared for a quick
cold shower. It may be a good idea to bring along flip-flops to shower in as well.
Security
Staff members pick up volunteers
directly at the airport. We host
volunteers in facilities with their own
special security. As needed during
the day, we also hire additional
security guards to be with the group
during transportation and to be
present at the worksite. GLOBAL BUILDERS
HAITI
The Fuller Center requires that you
protect your eyes with safety glasses
when using power tools. Safety glasses
are also recommended when nailing.
Use ear and eye protection when
using power saws for prolonged
periods of time.
Wear clothing appropriate for the
task. Do not wear loose-fitting
clothes around power saws. Wear
work boots that protect from falling
objects and resist nail penetration as
well as have a non-slip sole.
Hard hats are required when working
in an area where items could fall
or be dropped from above. Guards
on saws must be in place when
operating. Tools must be in a safe
condition.
Know where the drinking water and
first aid kit are located. Tell your
team leader immediately in the event
of an injury.
Select the correct tool for your work.
Carry only those you need.
Think and concentrate on your task.
If you are uncertain about how to
do a task, or how to operate a power
tool, ask your team leader.
Remove nails from discarded lumber.
Do not leave loose objects on the roof
or on ladders or scaffolding. Keep
your tools in your tool belt when they
are not in use. When working on a
roof, secure all building materials
to prevent items from sliding off.
Sweep sawdust and debris off the roof
frequently. Let workers below know
when you are sweeping or throwing
materials off the roof.
WORKS I TE SAF E T Y M | 11
Power Saws:
Health Care
Avoid “binding” the blade of any saw.
When a blade binds it kicks the saw
back toward the operator. Use two
hands to hold a circular saw. Firmly
secure/hold the material being cut.
Have another person help you firmly
secure/hold the material being cut.
Make sure you have a solid footing.
Do not overreach. Keep electric cords
out of the way of the saw.
Your health is one of our major
concerns. We strongly recommend
that you seek professional medical
advice to insure that you are healthy
enough to handle hard work in a
hot and dry climate. Please bring all
medication needed while you travel.
It is also important that you bring all
of your medications being taken or
those needed to be taken in special
circumstances, because they may not
be easily available in Haiti.
Ladders:
Use a ladder that will reach the work.
An extension ladder should extend
three feet (3’) above the step-off
point. Move the ladder with your
work. Avoid overreaching. The base
of an extension ladder should be
1’ out from the wall for every 4’ of
height. Place stepladders on solid,
level footing. Do not work at a height
beyond which you are comfortable.
Utility Knives:
Keep hands out of the path of the
blade. Always retract the blade when
not in use.
Trash/Rubbish & Debris:
Keep the work area clean. Be sure to
re-stack unused building materials
or serviceable scraps. Put all trash
and debris in a trash container or a
designated trash area. Sweep out the
house regularly.
For your safety on the construction
site, it is important that you are upto-date with your tetanus shot or
have one administered prior to your
arrival in Haiti, upon advice of your
doctor.
State Health Department
Recommendations
For more information visit: wwwnc.
cdc.gov/travel/destinations/haiti.
htm
First-Aid
There will be a first aid box on site
for any worker who becomes ill or
injured at the construction site. In
the event of a serious illness or injury,
arrangements for transportation to
the local hospital will be made.
GLOBAL BUILDERS
CDC TR AVE L T I PS M | 12
HAITI
“Boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it”
If you drink water, buy it bottled or bring it to a rolling boil for 1 minute before you drink it. Bottled carbonated water
is safer than uncarbonated water.
Ask for drinks without ice unless the ice is made from bottled or boiled water. Avoid popsicles and flavored ices that
may have been made with contaminated water.
Eat foods that have been thoroughly cooked and that are still hot and steaming.
Avoid raw vegetables and fruits that cannot be peeled. Vegetables like lettuce are easily contaminated and are very hard
to wash well.
When you eat raw fruit or vegetables that can be peeled, peel them yourself. (Wash your hands with soap first.) Do not
eat the peelings.
Avoid foods and beverages from street vendors. It is difficult for food to be kept clean on the street, and many travelers
get sick from food bought from street vendors.
Sun Exposure
Bug Bites
Travelers spending time outdoors
are exposed to the sun’s harmful
ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy
days. Travelers are at an increased
risk when traveling near the equator,
during summer months, and at high
altitudes. Reflection from the snow,
sand, and water increases exposure,
so consider sun safety during
outdoor activities including snow
skiing, spending time at the beach,
swimming, and sailing.
Bugs (including mosquitoes, ticks, and some flies) can spread a number
of diseases. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or
medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.
Protect yourself from the sun:
-Stay in the shade, especially during
midday hours.
-Wear clothing to protect exposed
skin.
-Wear a hat with a wide brim to
shade the face, head, ears, and neck.
-Drink plenty of fluids.
-Wear sunglasses that block both
UVA and UVB rays.
-Use sunscreen
Protection against Ticks and Mosquitoes: Use a repellent that contains
20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours. Products
containing DEET include Off!, Cutter, Sawyer, and Ultrathon.
Always follow product directions and reapply as directed. If you are also
using sunscreen, apply sunscreen first and insect repellent second. Follow
package directions when applying repellent on children. Avoid applying
repellent to their hands, eyes, and mouth.
If you are bitten by mosquitoes:
-Avoid scratching mosquito bites.
-Apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce itching.
Dog & Cats
The main threat from dogs and cats is rabies. Rabies is spread in the saliva
of an infected animal, so the only way to prevent it (other than vaccination)
is to avoid being bitten, scratched, or licked by any animal. Although any
mammal can get rabies, dogs are responsible for most rabies deaths.
If you are bitten or scratched: Immediately wash the wound with plenty of
soap and water, and see a doctor as soon as possible. Rabies is almost always
fatal if an exposed person is not promptly given rabies shots.
GLOBAL BUILDERS
HAITI
SAF E TR AVE L T I PS M | 13
U.S. Department of State’s Traveler’s Checklist
An overseas trip requires careful planning to ensure you have a safe and meaningful exprience. Fortunately, the U.S.
Department of State has put together a list of important steps to take to help you prepare for your adventure. To see
their entire list and to view country specific details you can visit their website at:
http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/go/checklist.html
Pre-trip and Arrival
Your Health
☑ Beware of any travel alerts and warnings
☑ Health Experts Recommend
- http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/alertswarnings.html
☑ Do you have all required travel documents?
- Up to date passport: most countries require the passport to be valid for at
least six months beyond the dates of the trip
☑ Are you prepared for an emergency?
Vaccinations for travel to some
countries
- Please check with the experts at
the Centers for Disease Control for
advice and information:
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel
- Make sure you and your family back home have all the emergency
contact numbers that are located on page 7 of this guidebook.
- For an emergency back home, families can also call the Office of Overseas
Citizens Services in Washington D.C. and the State Department will relay the
message to the consular who will then locate you. Contact information is
located on page 8.
☑ Does your health insurance cover
☑ Pack Smart
☑ Are you taking Prescriptions?
- Pack light
- Don’t show signs of wealth: bring a minimum number of valuables and plan
places to conceal them
- Use covered luggage tags to avoid casual observation of your identity and
nationality
- Avoid packing IDs, tickets and other vital documents in locations you won’t
be able to see at all times
☑ Do you have photocopies of your itinerary and travel documents?
- Make two copies of your travel documents in case of an emergency. Leave one
with a friend or family member at home. Carry the other copy with you stored
separate from the orginals. Documents to make copies of include:
- Passport
- Itinerary
- Foreign Visa (if applicable)
- Airline Ticket
you outside the U.S.?
- We provide travel insurance which
does have medical coverage but it is
still good to learn what services your
own insurance may provide.
- Pack enough to last your entire trip
including some extra
- Carry medications in their orginal
labeled containers and pack them
in your carry on bag since checked
baggage can get lost or delayed.
- If country has restrictions on
certain carry on items you can get
a letter from your physician in case
you are questioned.
Your Safety in Country
☑ Prepare to Handle Money Overseas
- Check and understand the exchange rate
- Notify your bank and credit/debit card provider that you are
going to be traveling overseas
- Do not flash large amounts of money when paying a bill
☑ Travel in pairs and avoid traveling at night
☑ Learn about local laws and customs
GLOBAL BUILDERS
HAITI
COUNTRY CHAMPIONS ~ |14
What Are Country Champions:
You’ve gone, seen and been changed, so why stop now?
Becoming a country Champion allows you to continue
making an impact in Haiti long after arriving home. For
many this journey will touch their heart, change their
outlook on life and affect their values. It’s so easy to come
home and fall back into old routines and patterns of life
without implementing lasting change.
This is where Country Champions come into play. It
allows your Global Builders trip to be just the beginning.
It’s real simple; commit to a monthly gift and a personal
change and keep the momentum alive!
During your trip you will receive a postcard inviting you
to join the program. It’s as easy as filling out the card,
putting a stamp on it and dropping it in the mail box.
More information about the program can be found by
going to www.fullercenter.org/global-builders/champions.
Monthly Giving:
Personal Change:
Donations are vital to keep the work in Haiti going yearround. Just think about this: If 12 people on your team
donated $35 a month, together you would be able to build
a house every year. Now imagine the impact that would
have on the families, how could you say no?
During your trip you are sure to be changed, but how will
it show once you arrive back home? For example, you can
volunteer your time locally, change your spending habits,
or maybe do local cross-cultural outreach. Whatever it is,
commit yourself to it while in Haiti by writing down one
specific change on the postcard provided. We’ll use them
for encouragement and inspiration.
GLOBAL BUILDERS
HAITI
PACKI NG LI S T Z | 15
Below is a list of recommended items to pack for a 1-week trip to Haiti. We have tried to create a complete list that will
meet your needs while reducing excess. The Fuller Center is not responsible for lost or stolen items, so please leave all
unnecessary electronics and other valuables at home.
Since luggage may be delayed by the airlines, bringing all your luggage in your carry-on is ideal. Sharing common items
like bug spray and sunscreen amongst your group can help save space. If you must bring checked luggage, we recommend
bringing 2 days’ clothing and all necessities in your carry-on. To help you find a checked bag quickly, you may wish to
mark your bag with bright tape.
Documents:
Passport
Cash
Return plane
reservations
Toiletries:
No Visa is required for Haiti for 90
days or less
$100 on hand, including some small
bills for tips, never hurts. But you
shouldn’t need much of it.
You can’t count on having a printer
available
Clothing:
T-shirt
Shorts
Underwear
Socks
Pants
Closed toes
shoes
Sleep wear
Light shoes
Hat
Shirts you don’t mind getting dirty
3 work and 1 clean pair
We think you know what you
need…
For the worksite.
It gets very hot - shorts are
acceptable.
For construction
Light shorts and t-shirt.
For wearing in the evenings
Wide brim protects face and neck.
It’s also custom for women to wear
a hat in church.
Swim suit
In case an opportunity presents
itself!
Men: Dress pants For church. Men asked to wear a
& shirt, tie
necktie.
Women: Skirt or For church or other formal events.
dress
Women do not wear pants to church
in Haiti.
Bandanas
Can be used to help keep you cool.
(Optional)
Prescriptions
If needed
Deodorant
Shampoo & Soap Hotel size works great
Tooth Brush
Tooth Paste
Small travel size
Gear:
Flashlight
Hand Sanitizer
Luggage Lock
Sun Glasses
Camera
Work gloves
Rain Coat /
Poncho
Journal
Small day bag
Book
Water bottle
Mosquito nets
(optional)
Ear plugs
(optional)
Headlamps work great
Small container
TSA approved
There are afternoon rains most
days, but you can live through them
without this.
To help remember your experience.
Backpacks are handy - again not
required.
For passing downtime
For refilling from 5-gallon bottled
water containers all week.
Most volunteers don’t use them, but
they aren’t provided & should be
brought if wanted
It can be noisy sleeping near the
tent camp
Leave Behind:
Expensive-looking watches
Jewelry
Signs of wealth
GLOBAL BUILDERS
HAITI
GROUP PACKING LIST Z | 16
Documents:
Miscellaneous:
Emergency
contacts
Insurance
Cards
Crisis Manual
(Team Leader)
Snacks
Peanut Butter
& Jelly
Powdered
Gatorade
Large containers to refill small ones
Small Personal Tools (optional):
(Team Leader)
Gear:
Hand Sanitizer
Bug spray
Sun screen
Wet wipes
Hand lotion
Granola bars, trail mix, etc…
Probably not needed, but always
handy as a snack or back-up meal plan
Other electrolyte replacement powders
work as well, like Emergen-C and
Nuun.
work gloves
tape measure
2’ level
hand saw
battery power tools
mini sledge hammer
wire cutters (lineman pliers)
tool bag
utility knife and blades
tool belts
concrete gloves
hammer
chaulk line
masonry trowels
hack saw
concrete chisel
concrete float
tin snips
extension cord
carpenter pencils
duct tape
GLOBAL BUILDERS
HAITI
FAQ OVE RVI E W Q| 17
1. What is a typical schedule?
Be ready to be flexible! Schedules can change quickly in
Haiti. Rainstorms, communication, material supplies
and more are unpredictable. We work hard to consider
all the possibilities in order to plan for an enjoyable and
productive workweek.
All trips will last one week, typically Saturday through
Saturday. Sunday offers a chance for attending a Haitian
worship service. Saturday or Sunday afternoons there will
be opportunity for some of the limited R&R available in
Haiti, which must be coordinated in advance.
During work days, a typical schedule will look like this:
6:00am - Devotions (optional)
7:00am - Breakfast
3. Do you have any special packing
recommendations? This guide includes a packing list to help with
recommendations.
For those planning on attending worship services, please
note that at church services in Haiti men are expected
to wear dress pants (not jeans), and they often wear a
necktie. Men do not wear hats or shorts in church. When
in church the women are expected to wear a skirt or dress
and do not wear pants, shorts, low cuts, or any exotic
wear. It is also custom that ladies wear a head covering - a
simple hat will do - in services.
Our partners in Haiti ask that participants leave all
jewelry at home, with the possible exception of wedding
rings.
8:00-1:00pm - Worksite
1:00-2:00pm - Lunch (on site)
2:00-4:00pm - Worksite
6:00pm - Dinner
7:00 - Debriefing
9:00 – Bedtime
2. Will we have a chaperone or an interpreter?
Yes, our staff is dedicated to making sure the group has a
good experience and translators are included. Nevertheless,
more than the words we say, working side-by-side with
partner families and other Haitians to improve lives is a
language that transcends barriers. 4. Can we bring any supplies, medicine, or
toys with us? If so, what can we bring?
Here is a list of items our partners could use: Children
toys, bubbles, soccer ball, 39 gallon contractor strength
clean-up trash bags, twin sheet sets and pillow cases, bath
towels and wash cloths, hand soap and shampoo, paper
plates and cups, plastic utensils, flash lights, AA, AAA,
C and D batteries, children’s shoes, children’s clothes,
children’s vitamins (not expired), candies, peanut butter
and jelly, paint brushes and rollers, paint trays, note pads,
pens and pencils, French Bibles, English Bibles and Creole
Bibles.
Any or all help is appreciated!
5. What security is provided? Staff members pick up volunteers directly at the airport.
We host volunteers in facilities with their own special
security. During the day the team will have trusted
Haitians buildings and working alongside the team.
GLOBAL BUILDERS
HAITI
FAQ OVE RVI E W Q| 18
6. Who are the families we’re building
with? Generally speaking, how were they
impacted by the quake?
10. How do arrivals work? Will we be met
at the airport? How will we get to where
we’re staying?
Our main focus is working with families who lost their
homes - and more - during the earthquake. Permanent
housing remains perhaps the greatest need in Haiti, with
over a million Haitians living in simple tents or shelters
made of scrap wood or metal. During the rainy season,
families use layers of tarps over the roofs and set the
tents on layers of old broken concrete block to attempt to
prevent flooding. This affects every aspect of their lives.
We are building on the land owned by each family.
Members of a team should coordinate their flights with
the help of their team leader. All members should arrive
within 90 minutes of each other - ideally on the same
flight. Participants should arrive before 2:00 pm to avoid
being on the road at night in Haiti.
7. Will the homes we’re building withstand
the next earthquake?
Because of the likelihood of aftershocks in the years
to come, this is a top priority of our building efforts.
We have experience building homes around the world.
Monitoring and improving quality control--for example,
preventing shortcuts in the mixing of cement and
carefully reviewing techniques with our masons--will
help create more resilient structures.
8. Is insurance provided with this trip?
Yes. As part of The Fuller Center’s Global Builders
program, all registered participants will be enrolled in
our emergency travel medical insurance program. An
insurance benefit guide is included in this guidebook.
Please note that the volunteer is responsible for up to the
$250 deductible. A sample Certificate of Insurance and
its corresponding details can be obtained by emailing
[email protected]. Your team leader will
also be sent a copy of your insurance card. Please note
that this is not the same as trip cancellation insurance
which can often be purchased from your airline.
9. Do I need any special shots prior to leaving?
You might. Please check with the experts at the Centers
for Disease Control for advice and information. wwwnc.
cdc.gov/travel/destinations/haiti.aspx
The host location is about 1.5-3.0 hours from the airport,
so it is important that flights are coordinated with the
team leader to ensure that they arrive together.
After exiting customs you will be greeted by a staff
member. Please look for a sign or someone wearing a
Fuller Center or Homes from the Heart shirt.
11. How will we get around during the week?
We rent transportation for each trip. This includes pick-up
and drop-off for the team from the airport and to drive
the team during the build week.
12. Where will we be staying? Does it have
electricity, running water & bathrooms?
Groups will be staying at a local hotel, that will meet the
basic needs mentioned in the question. Most of the facilities
do have some Internet access, but it comes and goes and so
we would recommend that our groups come expecting not
to have any.
13. Will we be able to do any laundry while
we’re there?
If needed, a local worker can be hired to do the laundry,
but since trips are only one week, you might as well pack
as though you will not be able to do laundry.
GLOBAL BUILDERS
HAITI
FAQ OVE RVI E W Q| 19
14. Should we bring toiletries, bed linens,
towels, blankets, etc?
Bed linens are provided and additional blankets are
probably not needed in the hot climate. Each participant
should bring his or her own toiletries.
15. Are mosquito nets needed? Are they provided?
Mosquito nets are not provided, and whether they are
needed or not is a matter of personal discretion. Most
American visitors have chosen to use bug spray or put
dryer sheets near beds to help keep mosquitoes away.
However, team members can bring their own mosquito
net if they prefer.
16. How are meals, food, & water handled?
Food and water must be handled carefully in Haiti,
and so whether from reputable hotels or cooks whose
standards and methods we are familiar with, we work
hard to ensure that groups will have safe and nutritious,
albeit fairly simple, meals. We provide three meals per day
– typically breakfast and dinner where you are staying
and lunch on the work site. Purified water is also always
available and provided, usually in five-gallon containers,
so you will want to bring your own reusable bottle.
17. What type of work can we expect to do?
Come ready for anything. Work could include laying
block, clearing rubble, applying stucco, cutting
rebar, mixing concrete, or other tasks. Every job is
important. Expect it to be sunny and HOT. Shade is
limited. Heavy water consumption is a must all day long.
You may want to bring electrolyte replacement powders.
18. Are there any tools we should bring?
We will provide the tools you need, but extras never hurt.
Some suggested tools include: a hammer, tape, chalk line,
2’ level, trowels, hand saw, battery-powered tools, concrete
float, wire cutters (lineman pliers), tin snips, tool bag,
extension cord, utility knife and blades, carpenter pencils,
and tool belts.
19. Will we have days off from the build?
Sunday is a non-working day. If coordinated in advance, a
group may want to set aside one day for R&R.
20. What can we do on Sunday or an offday? Are there any r&r opportunities?
If desired, we can help arrange for the group to attend a
Haitian church service. Services usually run from 8 a.m.
to 11 a.m. on Sunday morning.
R&R opportunities are limited in Haiti but options are
available to travel to either a local or public beach as well
as visiting the local mountain overlook. Either option can
be arranged while in country.
GLOBAL BUILDERS
H ACenter
I T I of Housing
I N S . B E N E F I T GU I D E | 2 0
The Fuller
2013 Benefit Guide
Thank you for choosing Seven Corners to
service your international health
insurance needs. Our goal is to provide
you with complete, efficient, and helpful
service. We have created this Benefit
Guide as a quick reference tool for your
benefits.
This Benefit Guide is a summary of
emergency
information
and
instructions; it is not a substitute for
your review of the Certificate of
Insurance which has been provided. For
a full and detailed explanation of
benefits, provisions, and exclusions
from which claims are processed and
coverage determinations made, please
refer to the official Certificate of
Insurance. If you do not have a copy of
the Certificate of Insurance, please
immediately contact Seven Corners for
another copy.
Group Number: LON12-120213-01TM
Your ID card contains important contact information and your individual certificate
number, which you will need when you contact us.
Finding a Provider:
U.S. and International PPO information for your plan can be found here:
http://www.multiplan.com/search/search-2.cfm?originator=84453 (U.S. providers only)
Available by phone from our Assist Department 24/7
Inside the United States: 1-800-690-6295;
Outside the United States: 0-317-818-2808 (Collect)
Fax: 1-317-815-5984
E-Mail: [email protected]
A complete list of international providers is also available at Wellabroad.com
Wellabroad.com: Our real-time, information-rich Web site offers quick and easy
access to important and varied travel information free to our insureds. It contains
travel advisories and warnings as well as country-specific background information
including entry requirements, languages, and airport locations. The site also provides
common travel resources such as international area codes, language tools and
currency and time zone converters. You will find a complete listing of international
providers here as well.
MyPlan: This service area provides information about your eligibility, preferred providers, and claims (including Explanation of Benefit
forms). You may also contact us through this area. Instructions for accessing MyPlan are provided on your ID card.
Understanding Your Benefits: Attached you will find a brief Schedule of Benefits with detail on your deductible, coinsurance, and
benefits.
Pre-Notification Guidelines: Your complete benefits often require that you give notice to Seven Corners either before or within 48
hours of receiving treatment. You must notify Seven Corners through our Assist department at the contact information shown above by
phone, fax, or e-mail.
1. You (or someone on your behalf) must notify Seven Corners 48 hours before a scheduled, non-emergency hospital admission
anywhere in the world.
2. You (or someone on your behalf) must notify Seven Corners within 48 hours of an emergency hospital admission anywhere in
the world.
3. You (or someone on your behalf) must notify Seven Corners 48 hours before incurring any expense in excess of US$1,000
within the United States.
Failure to pre-notify as stated will result in a reduction of benefits and/or an additional deductible.
Pre-notification does not guarantee payment of benefits.
This Benefit Guide is provided as a quick reference for emergency information and instructions. For a full and
detailed explanation of benefits, provisions, and exclusions from which claims are processed and coverage
determinations made, please refer to the official Certificate of Insurance available from Seven Corners.
GLOBAL BUILDERS
The Fuller Center of Housing
HAITI
Schedule of Benefits
I N S . B E N E F I T GU I D E | 21
All Coverages and Plan Costs listed in this Evidence of Benefits are in U.S. Dollar amounts.
U.S. Coverage
Medical Maximums
Deductible
Coinsurance
Hospital Indemnity
Excluded
$250,000 per person per Period of Coverage (age 80+, maximum limited to
$15,000)
$250: Deductible is per person per Occurrence.
Traveling Outside the United States: After You pay the Deductible, the plan
pays 100% to the selected Medical Maximum.
Home Country and Home Country Extension of Benefits will be provided with the
following Coinsurance if the U.S. is your Home Country:
After You pay the Deductible, the plan pays 80% of the next $5,000 of eligible
expenses, then 100% to the selected Medical Maximum.
$150 per night, up to a maximum of 30 days (Applicable to individuals traveling
outside the United States only)
Dental (Accident Coverage)
Dental (Sudden Relief of Pain)
Emergency Medical Evacuation/Repatriation
Return of Mortal Remains
To a maximum of $500 (Available to programs purchased for 1 month or more.)
To a maximum of $250 (Available to programs purchased for 1 month or more.)
$100,000 (in addition to the Medical Maximum)
$25,000
Return of Minor Child(ren)
Emergency Reunion
Local Ambulance Benefit
Accidental Death & Dismemberment
$50,000
$50,000
$5,000
$50,000 principal sum for Insured
Loss of Checked Baggage
Interruption of Trip
Home Country Coverage
$500
$5,000
Incidental Trips to The Home Country: Up to $50,000
Home Country Extension of Benefits: Up to $5,000
Up to $20,000 (Applicable to U.S. and Canadian citizens traveling outside the
United States; Age 65+, up to $2,500)
Included
180 days
Unexpected Recurrence of a Pre-existing
Condition
Hazardous Sports
Benefit Period
Claims Submission
Documents required for submitting a claim include the following:
1. Completed Proof of Loss (Claim form) - can be found at: http://www.sevencorners.com/forms/ProofofLossForm.pdf
2. Detailed bills for services received.
3. Receipts for payments made.
4. Any other supporting medical documentation pertinent to the claim.
Claims documents may be submitted via postal mail, fax, or email:
Seven Corners, Inc.
Attn. Claims
303 Congressional Blvd.
Carmel, IN 46032
UNITED STATES
Fax: (+01) 317-575-2256
Email: [email protected]
Claims which do not require additional medical documentation
are processed within 30-45 days of receipt. Member
reimbursement may be issued via bank check or wire transfer,
depending on the member’s preference. It is important to
answer all questions on the claim form with as much detail as
possible.
Currency conversions for claims are paid based on the
exchange rate for the U.S. dollar on your date of service.
This Benefit Guide is provided as a quick reference for emergency information and instructions. For a full and
detailed explanation of benefits, provisions, and exclusions from which claims are processed and coverage
determinations made, please refer to the official Certificate of Insurance available from Seven Corners.
GLOBAL BUILDERS
The Fuller Center of Housing
H AAssist
I T ICenter Services
INS.
Seven Corners
B E N E F I T GU I D E | 2 2
Travel Medical Assistance services
TheFuller
Center of Housing
Medical evacuation/repatriation
 Medical referral and case monitoring
Seven
Corners Assist Center Services
 Return of mortal remains
TravelIntelligence
Medical Assistance
Travel
Servicesservices

messaging
alerts
Text
Medical
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
networkand
directory
Provider
Medical referral
case monitoring
Online
Returnforums
of mortal remains

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
and missed
Trip
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Hotel
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
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flight re-bookings

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Lost,
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Emergency return
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
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 Lost travel documents retrieval or duplication
Legal,
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
consulate referrals
Currency
Lost, stolen
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baggage and baggage delay assistance

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Information
Emergency return
travel
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
on local
medical
and travel advisories
24-Hour
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 Lost
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
implementation
all travel medical assistance and trip management assistance services
Immediate
Legal, embassy
or consulateofreferrals
Emergency
Currency conversion
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
prescription
services

Multilingual
Information services
on local medical and travel advisories
Worldwide
Provider
Network Access
24-Hour Assist
Services
Assist
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implementation
of allstandard
travel medical
assistance
and triptomanagement
assistance
services

with all
levels of care from
medical
appointments,
emergency medical
evacuations

include
physician,
hospital, and travel arrangements
Services
Emergency
prescription
services

of specialists
to render care for all travelers
Staff
Multilingual
services
Worldwide
Provider
Network
Access
 Relationships with providers
and hospitals all around the world
No
Assist
withcare
all levels
of care from standard medical appointments, to emergency medical evacuations

hassle
coordination
Unparalleled
Service
 Services
include physician, hospital, and travel arrangements

understanding
of cultural
language challenges
Thorough
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to render
care forand
all travelers

services
Individualized
Relationships and
withimmediate
providers and
hospitals all around the world
To Contact
Sevencare
Corners
Assist
 No hassle
coordination
 InsideService
the United States: 1-800-690-6295;
Unparalleled

Outside the
United States:
0-317-818-2808
(Collect)
 Thorough
understanding
of cultural
and language
challenges
 Individualized
and immediate services

E-Mail: [email protected]
To Contact Seven Corners Assist
 Inside the United States: 1-800-690-6295;
 Outside the United States: 0-317-818-2808 (Collect)
 E-Mail: [email protected]
This Benefit Guide is provided as a quick reference for emergency information and instructions. For a full and
detailed explanation of benefits, provisions, and exclusions from which claims are processed and coverage
determinations made, please refer to the official Certificate of Insurance available from Seven Corners.
GLOBAL BUILDERS
L ANGUAGE GU I D E L| 2 3
HAITI
Usually you will be able to find somebody around who is willing to help you express yourself. However, it is convenient
to have some knowledge of the pronunciation and some basic words.
Creole is written phonetically. Each letter is pronounced, and each word is spelled as it is pronounced. Creole has only
been recognized as the official language of Haiti in the last few years. Therefore, there are many different ways in which
the Haitians write and spell Creole words. The following is a pronunciation guide using this standard; most of the
sounds are French.
Time:
Yesterday
Today
Tomorrow
This morning
This afternoon
This evening
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Numbers:
Ye
Jodia
Demen
Maten an
Apremidi a
Aswe a
Lendi
Madi
Mekredi
Jedi
Vandredi
Samdi
Dimanch
One
Two
Three
Four
Five
Six
Seven
Eight
Nine
Ten
Pleasantries:
Good morning
Good afternoon/
evening
How are you?
Good (Most common
response)
Yes
No
Thanks
No, Thanks
Please
You’re Welcome
No problem
Ok
Excuse me
I’m sorry
Items:
En
De
Twa
Kat
Senk
Sis
Sèt
Uit
Nèf
Dis
Hammer
Bucket
Ladder
Nail
Mato
Bokit
nechèl
Klou
Questions:
Bonjou
Bonswa
Koman ou ye?
N’ap boule
Wi
Non
Mesi
Non, mesi
Souple
Merite
Pa gen pwoblem
Oke
Eskize mwen
Mwen regret sa
Why?
Where?
What?
When?
Who?
How?
Which?
How much?/many?
Do you speak English?
You understand?
What is that in Creole?
How old are you?
Where do you live?
Do you have children?
Where are we?
Poukisa?
Kote?
Kisa?
Kile?
Ki moun?
Kijan?
Kiles?
Konben
Eske ou pale angle
Ou konprann?
Kijn yo rele sa an kreyol
Kilaj ou?
Kote ou rete?
Eske ou gen pitit?
Kote nou ye?
GLOBAL BUILDERS
HAITI
L ANGUAGE GU I D E L| 2 4
Clarifications / Commerce:
Problems:
There is / are…
There is / are not any
I don’t have any
That’s right
A litte bit
A lot
There are a lot of…
Here
There
Not now
Everywhere
Nothing
Almost
Now
We are looking for…
Please give me…
Divide this among you
We would like to eat
You ok?
I’m not too well
I’m sick
Where does it hurt?
I cannot eat / sleep
I’m dizzy
I need something for
this out
You have AIDS
I’m hungry
I’m very thirsty
Gen…
Pa genyen
Mwen pa genyen
Sekonsa
Piti piti
Anpil
Gen anpil…
Isit
La
Pa kounye
Toupatou
Anyen
Preske
Kounye
Nou ap chache
Souple, ban mwen
Separe sa ant nou
Nou ta vle manje
Ou byen?
Mwen pa two byen
Mwen malad
Kote Ii fe ou mal?
Mwen pa ka manje / domi
Mwen toudi
Mwen bezwen yon bagay pi
blese sa a
Ou gen SIDA
Mwen grangou
Mwen swaf anpil
Emergency:
Help
Is everthing ok?
Attention / Watch out
Hurry
Fire
Stop
There was an
accident
We need a doctor /
nurse right now
Where is the
hospital?
We need bandages /
cotton
Anmwe
Tout bagay anfom?
Atansyon
Prese prese
Dife
Rete
Te gen you aksidan
Nou bezwen yon dokte / yon
mis touswit
Kote Lopital Ia?
Nou bezwen pansman /
koton