HELO, Inc. is a non-profit corporation organized and existing under the laws of the State of Connecticut. HELO was created and operates as a division of Bethesda Evangelical Mission based in Wallingford, Connecticut and aux Cayes, Haiti. Bethesda’s history, recognition and awards for its humanitarian efforts in Haiti can be seen on their website at BEMHAITI.org.
Pastor Jean Phares Beaucejour has worked tirelessly in Cayes, building churches and schools, yet dreamed of starting an orphanage. Elisabeth Kennedy had been working in Haiti for years and met Pastor Beaucejour in March of 2006 on a medical mission. Throughout the next year, the two became aware of their mutual dream through prayer and conversation and forged this partnership, co-founding HELO in June 2007. Pastor Jean Phares Beaucejour handles HELO’s work in Haiti, Elisabeth handles the work in the USA, and both travel periodically to work together in each country.
HELO’s first home opened in November 2007, renting a home near Camp Perrin with wonderful house parents, cook and teacher. Children were taught at the house, and we soon saw proof that Home Education Love and Opportunity can change the life of a child.
A beautiful parcel of land nearby the rented house became available in November 2008, and by the grace of God we were able to put a deposit down to hold the land. In April 2009 the land was purchased and our dreams continued to unfold by breaking ground for a school in September. A wonderful Christmas party was held in December 2009 for the community, an introduction and celebration of God’s blessings on HELO.
The tragic earthquake in January put an abrupt end to our joy and celebration. Our hearts ache for this land we love. In an effort to respond quickly to the cries of Haiti’s children, HELO began construction of a small home and brought tents to HELO’s property to immediately take in children orphaned by the earthquake. After searching for loving staff, house parents were hired and a second home opened in early February. We immediately started building a third home, and on July 1, 2010 took in an additional 12 children who had been on a waiting list since January. We will again duplicate what we have seen work in the first home -- a loving home, three meals a day, and the opportunity to attend school with the other children of HELO.