Dr. Bronner’s collaboration with Pastor Johny began a few years ago amid a surge of Haitian refugees and migrants crossing the Rio Grande in an attempt to escape natural disasters, poverty, and political turmoil. In an effort to grasp the unfolding humanitarian crisis, our Director of Engagement, Bertine Kabellis—herself of Haitian descent—reached out to Pastor Johny, a Haitian refugee willing to share his story with our team.
Pastor Johny recounted his harrowing migration from Haiti, vividly describing the despair and anxiety he endured while being separated from his wife and children for many years, uncertain of his asylum status. His tale of resilience was deeply moving. Eventually reunited with his family, Pastor Johny has since become a beacon of hope and support for Haitian refugees navigating life in San Diego. His profound empathy, forged through his own arduous journey, fuels his unwavering commitment to assist others in similar predicaments.
Operating out of the only Haitian church in San Diego, Pastor Johny transformed a dilapidated two-room house on the church property into a refuge for approximately sixty people. Despite the cramped conditions, the shelter provided much-needed security and community for its residents. However, a city inspection last year uncovered health violations, forcing the shelter to temporarily close its doors. Recognizing the urgent need for assistance, Dr. Bronner’s stepped in to help. Two of our skilled contractors, Tank and Roberto, volunteered their services, and the company donated $30,000 towards the necessary renovations.
The renovation team achieved remarkable results on a tight budget. They completely overhauled the kitchen and bathrooms and installed hot water facilities, significantly improving the living conditions and making the shelter safer and more comfortable for its occupants. With the renovations complete, the community once again uses the shelter as a home while awaiting their immigration hearings—a process that can take years. Pastor Johny now uses the space as a launchpad for his efforts to support Haitians who arrive with nothing.
Being community-minded transcends merely donating money to nonprofits—although that remains a significant part of our mission. It involves fostering personal connections. It began with Bertine’s connection to Pastor Johny. Pastor Johny then connected with our employees, and in turn, our employees connected with Haitian migrants in San Diego, providing much-needed shelter and support. These connections, the continuous exchange of ideas, solutions, resources, and hope, illustrate the essence of true community work.
Read more stories like this in our 2024 All-One Report!