The term “restavek” is used to describe an abused child who lives with and serves a family, not their biological one. These children’s situations are a product of their parents being unable to provide for them or simply sold to another family.
According to Connect 2 Ministries, this has become a common occurrence in Haiti.
Dozens of attendees came together on Saturday in Valencia Heritage Park to walk, taking steps forward in Connect 2 Ministries’ mission to save these children.
“Our goal is to rescue them, to put them in a home where they can heal or where they can grow and ultimately find Jesus,” said founder Greg Barshaw.
According to Connect 2 Ministries’ website, Haiti has approximately 300,000 restaveks. Meaning, around one in 15 Haitian children are enslaved.
The walk offered not only money toward the cause, but prayers as well.
“We’re just gonna keep on praying,” said attendee Jane Wright.
The walk itself was, as attendee Rachel Gibbs describes, “not long.”
“It was not about the walking, it was about finding spots to stop and pray,” said attendee Cindy Danielson.
To donate to Connect 2 Ministries, visit bit.ly/3mzopAn. For more information, visit bit.ly/3J8GOf2.
