A celebration of life for Eva DeHart will take place on November 14. Eva, who co-founded the nonprofit organization For Haiti With Love, passed away peacefully in her sleep, surrounded by family, on September 23 at the age of 87. She established the organization with her late husband, Don DeHart, to provide assistance to the people of Haiti.
For Haiti With Love aims to embody Christian principles by addressing needs such as hunger, clothing, health care, and shelter for the homeless. According to their daughter Roseline DeHart, the couple felt called to help the Haitian community after Don’s visit to the country, leading them to utilize their personal earnings before officially founding the organization in 1970.
Roseline has taken over the responsibilities of the organization following her mother’s declining health. “When Don was alive, he taught me how to build houses,” she shared. “He insisted that I learn these skills, even if I might not use them myself. After his death, Eva began teaching me the administrative tasks necessary for the organization.” Now, Roseline is dedicated to continuing her parents’ legacy.
The situation in Haiti has changed significantly since the DeHarts initiated their ministry. Ongoing issues like gang violence, food insecurity, and political instability are challenging conditions that have caused some missionaries to withdraw from the area. Roseline expresses concern that they may not return, but she remains steadfast in her commitment to the organization. “During earlier unrest, missionaries would question my father’s choice to stay. He would reply, ‘If we leave them when things are bad, what’s the point of being a missionary?'”
In her role, Roseline emphasizes the importance of spiritual support along with the physical aid provided. “We stress that our services are a reflection of Jesus’ love,” she noted. “People often ask what they owe us, and we tell them that Jesus has already paid the price.” She urges the community to pray for wisdom as she leads For Haiti With Love, as well as for the people of Haiti amidst the ongoing turmoil. “The people of Haiti are beautiful and deserving of help,” she remarked.
In lieu of flowers, the DeHart family requests memorial contributions to For Haiti With Love. These donations will go towards building a home in Haiti as a tribute to Eva’s and Don’s shared mission.
