Reflections from Dr. Pat Wolff, Meds & Food for Kids Founder
As we celebrate MFK treating 1 million children & mothers, I would like to acknowledge a group who made a huge difference along the way: the 46 expat fellows who worked with MFK for 1-3 years each from 2009 to 2020. Recent college graduates in North America and Europe shared what they learned about topics like food safety, agriculture, nursing, public health, and engineering. Except for agriculture and nursing, all of these areas of study were unavailable to the local Haitian people, even to those with higher education.
Each fellow accelerated steps toward success, but the impact was often not seen until after they had left Haiti. It was hard work; persistence was needed. The fellows collaborated with Haitians with generosity and kindness. I never doubted that the fellow’s contribution was appreciated by the people and communities they worked with. These fellows also learned a lot about the challenges of living in Haiti, and despite creature comfort challenges, everyone aimed to be their best selves and stayed focused on the mission.
A Bright Future in Haiti
In March of 2020, at the direction of the President of Haiti, the fellows were suddenly asked to leave the country because of the pandemic. The Haitian employees stepped up immediately. They soon realized that they had enough information and skills through their work with fellows over the years to perform all needed tasks. The Haitians filled all of MFK’s Haiti jobs, very confidently and professionally. MFK had always been working toward this goal but we did not imagine it would be accomplished so abruptly and so early.
Since the beginning, MFK has proudly promoted the achievements of Haitians. Today, I would like to also say how proud I am of the 46 expat fellows for their generosity, persistence and ability to choose hardship for the greater good of Haiti and Haitians. I give thanks for all of you and am proud to know each of you.
Dr. Pat Wolff