Local Haitian Development Center celebrates one year of service

SALISBURY, Md. – Monday marked the one year anniversary of the Haitian Development Center of Delmarva opening its doors.

Executive Director Reverend Roosevelt Toussaint tells 47 ABC that the center serves as a safe haven for the growing Haitian population locally. They provide resources like housing assistance and referrals to health and immigration services.

As the Haitian population locally continues to grow, the center’s focus is to expand its education services which expands its after school program. Toussaint also says that tackling the language barrier is also an area of focus.

“Our children have been somewhat lacking of some basic information that they need to graduate so we must assist with that,” Rev Toussaint said. “What would you imagine when someone comes into the country and they do not speak that language and they need to communicate? They have needs to be fulfilled. If they do not speak that language, this is a barrier.”

Rev. Toussaint also tells us he hopes the center can become a case management hub to provide immigration services in house. He adds they’re also in need of more funding and are actively seeking support from other organizations looking to partner.