This week, the children of our school in Croix-des-Bouquets did not come to class. The school stayed closed because of the security operations in the area, and some of our families have already left their homes to stay in nearby towns.
What is happening
On October 18, gangs ambushed four Salvadoran soldiers serving with the international security force in Croix-des-Bouquets, a town just northeast of Port-au-Prince. The soldiers are still missing. El Salvador has since sent more than 2,000 troops to Haiti to search for them, and operations against the gangs have continued around the capital and in our area. Part of the search is taking place in Santo, an area of Croix-des-Bouquets controlled by the Chen Mechan gang.
The wider picture in Haiti is just as hard. According to the United Nations, nearly 1.5 million Haitians have been forced from their homes by violence, and about 6.4 million people, more than half of the country, need humanitarian help.
What it means for our children
Zamar Ministries has served in Croix-des-Bouquets since 2006. For many families, our church and our school are part of everyday life. When the school closes, children lose more than a few days of lessons. They lose a safe place to be, a hot meal and the adults who look out for them.
Some of our families have now moved to neighboring towns. Our Haitian team is following the situation day by day and will reopen the school as soon as it is safe for the children to return.
How you can pray
- For the children of our school, that they stay safe and return to class soon.
- For the families who have left their homes, that they find shelter, food and a warm welcome where they are staying.
- For our Haitian team, for wisdom, courage and protection as they care for the community.
- For the four missing soldiers and their families, and for everyone living near the fighting.
- For peace in Haiti, and for leaders who will protect its people.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18
We will share news as soon as the school reopens. Thank you for standing with Haiti in prayer.
Sources
UN News, November 3, 2026: Haiti gang leader seeks UN talks as El Salvador sends 2,000 troops to hunt for missing soldiers
NPR, October 22, 2026: Bukele says military operation launched to rescue Salvadorans held by gangs in Haiti