Location

Bon a Dos, Haiti

On DECEMBER 6, 1492 Christopher Columbus first laid eyes on the pristine shores of the island of Hispanola. Lush with fruits and towering mahogany trees Haiti became known as "La Perle des Antilles" or "the Pearl of the Caribbean". What was once France's richest colony today has become one of the world's poorest nations, hindered by dictatorships, depleted natural resources, and overwhelming spiritual darkness.

BRIEF FACTS ABOUT HAITI:

• Haiti is the oldest black republic in the world.

• Population: approximately 8.3 million, almost entirely of African origin

• Employment rate: 30%

• Illiteracy rate: 48%

• Religion: Catholic 85%, Voodoo 90%

• Languages: French (official), kreyol (most widely spoken)

• Current government: Elected president

• Haiti is the poorest and most densely populated country in the Western Hemisphere.

• Average life expectancy is 52 years.