Haitian children who have experienced life in the restavek system can often identify a clear turning point when they first felt cared for and loved. It could be a simple gesture like a hug or could be verbally conveyed through kind and affirming words. While this may not seem like a grand expression of love, for a child who has been subjected to abuse and whose basic human rights have been violated, they begin to equate themselves as someone who is undeserving, unwanted, and unloved. But when children have a trusted adult or mentor in their lives, when they begin to feel noticed, heard, and safe, change can take root, both internally and externally. Children who enter into our program at Restavek Freedom are initially paired with a Child Advocate, a trained staff person who also serves as mentor, mediator, and confidante—this is where change can take root. With time and trust, they begin to feel noticed, safe, and heard.
Recently we asked some of our Child Advocates how they have seen children respond when they feel cared for and noticed, children who once bore the burden of isolation, abandonment, and neglect. Here is what some of our Advocates had to share:
“Children always respond positively. You can see that these children always have smiles on their faces and feel alive. This helps them learn better and stay more focused in school because they know there is someone who cares about them. It gives them a special sense of belonging in the community.”
“Children who have kind and caring host parents express the same kindness toward their host family and others around them. These children develop much better than those who do not have the chance to be placed with a loving host family.”
“When children receive care from someone, you can see the happiness in them. Every time they see their Advocate or a friend, they become even more joyful. They are able to express themselves better and share their feelings more openly.”
“Children always know who loves them. Throughout my time as a mentor, I have never encountered a child who was disrespectful to me. On the contrary, when I visit schools, as soon as they see me passing by their classrooms, they smile. Some even ask for permission to step outside just to greet me. This always brings me joy.
Many of them write to us to express their gratitude for the help we provide. Because they know we love them, they feel comfortable sharing their problems with us. When a child sees that someone is genuinely interested in them, they feel valued, and in turn, they show love and appreciation for that person.”
“A child who receives care is a child who thrives. They always have smiles on their faces. These children develop well physically and have good emotional health. When you compare them to children who do not receive proper care, the difference is easy to see. These children also perform better in school.”
The testimonies of our Child Advocates highlight a profound truth—when children feel cared for, they flourish. A single act of kindness, a consistent presence, or simply being noticed can shift the course of their lives. For children who have endured neglect and abuse, these moments of care and connection are not just meaningful; they are transformative.