“Our work is far from over:” Youngstown-based nonprofit clinic serves 11,000 people in Haiti
This year, a Youngstown-based nonprofit called Brown Horse Project is marking a major milestone of five years of service to people living in Balan, Haiti.
Since Brown Horse Project started working in Haiti in 2019, they established a clinic.
It’s called the BHP Medical Clinic Haiti, founded to bring critical medical care to a region “overlooked and under-served,” according to Dr. Steve Swain, Medical Projects Coordinator of Brown Horse Projects.
The team has treated over 11,000 patients to date, offering services that range from general check-ups and lab testing to specialized care for chronic conditions and maternal health.
“The support from our volunteers and donors in Youngstown and beyond has been nothing short of extraordinary,” said Dr. Swain. “We have been able to provide consistent, quality healthcare to a community in need, thanks to the dedication and generosity of those who believe in our mission.”
Volunteers from the Youngstown area support the all-Haitian clinic staff by fundraising for operating costs and providing medical education and resources. Volunteers take trips to Haiti when possible to provide medical care and consults with staff.
According to co-founder Andra LaMarca, the clinic also partners with Haitian healthcare professionals to empower community health for years to come.
“In an area where food and resources are scarce, daily life is difficult, and violence is always right under the surface, our work is driven by faith and hope. We believe that through compassion and care, we can help create a better future for the people of Balan. It’s not just about providing medical services; it’s about being a source of light in dark times and showing that even in the most challenging circumstances, there is always hope.”
How to help
According to fellow co-founder Katie Swain who’s also the executive director, BHP wants to expand the clinic’s services.
“Our work is far from over,” said Swain. “We are committed to continuing our mission in Haiti, but we can only do so with the support of our community here in Youngstown. Every donation, big or small, helps us provide life-saving care to our neighbors who need it most.”
The nonprofit relies entirely on donations to fund its operations, including medical supplies, staff salaries, and operational costs.
This year, they’re hoping to raise $50,000 for purchasing medication and supplies.
Anyone interested in supporting the clinic can visit the Brown Horse Project’s website to make a donation or learn more about local volunteer opportunities.
For more information, please contact Katie Swain at 330-406-9020 or connect@brownhorseprojects.com.