Cite Soleil

PROGRESS UPDATE

The cement block Wesleyan church at Cite Soliel was almost completely destroyed. One of the school buildings, however, was left standing. Currently church members are holding school and church services under the shelter of a large, white tent.

A team from Milton Wesleyan Church in the Penn Jersey District has begun work rebuilding the wall around the school. Because of the violent history of Cite Soliel, this wall is critical for the safety of the school children there.

World Hope International is also partnering with the church at Cite Soliel and is assisting with the repairs of the school. World Hope has already completed the repairs on the existing school building and is currently raising funds to replace the school buildings with a new masonry building.

Additional plans are being made for the reconstruction of the church building. The traditional pole buildings are too large for the lot at Cite Soliel, so plans for a multi-story building at this site are being discussed. In order to complete this project, this church needs the help of two more work teams and an additional $20,000.

RECOMMENDATIONS/NOTES

The church had a four meter high block wall surrounding the property prior to the earthquake. Since the wall has been down, they have noticed openness with the community. There is a need for security; however, possibly a different material, such as a partial block wall with wrought iron on top, can be used to keep the church more visible.

It appears possible to reuse the steel girders and some of the roofing materials.

If it is decided that the classroom building be repaired, it is recommended the walls of the classroom be tied together; the walls are now independent of each other and pose a risk of falling over. The metal posts and beams appear to be in good condition.

It is possible the existing blocks can be pulverized and used to bring the foundation to street level or above. Drainage is a concern for this property.

Area Layout