The R.E.A.D Foundation

We have established the 5 times daily Salaah in congregation with the Azaan being heard far and wide. Friday khutbahs are given in English and Kreyol. We teach the Muslims about the monthly and yearly Islamic observances, especially by creating the awareness of looking for the new moon every month. We conduct internal and external Taleem ( teaching of the stories of the Prophet S.A ) and we go out to the various homes of the villagers to personally invite them to Islam (Da’wah).

We also distribute meat, rice and beans to the villagers thereby encouraging the practice of giving in charity.

Establishing a daily Madrasah – Darul Uloom Haiti

On Wednesday the 15th of September 2010 (6th Shawwal 1431 A.H), through the Mercy of Allah (S.W.T), Darul Uloom Haiti was opened. It is the first Islamic Madrasah in the country. The students are taught Qur’an reading, memorization of the Qur’an (Hifz), Fiqh, Arabic Language and Ahaadith.

It is our hope that we can prepare the students to reach such a level that they can go back to their various Masjids in their villages and teach the people the correct way of Islam. We are also preparing them to be able to continue onward and study the ‘Aalim course abroad.

 Completing a kitchen and hostel area for the Madrasah

After having a few temporary places for the kitchen, Alhamdulillah, we were finally able to build a proper one in February 2011. The inside is tiled out to keep it clean and sanitary. We also have troughs outside for kitchen gardens.

Before the hostel was built, the students used to stay in individual tents provided by the Madrasah. Alhamdulillah, we were able to finish one building in March 2011. However, the hostel is most often used for guests and hosting of other programs, since our facilities are a bit limited.

We would like to get the other building next to the hostel completed so that it can be of use and benefit.

Completed Hostel

Building a Masjid in Chalon, Miragoane (project ongoing at present)

Alhamdulilah, we were finally able to purchase the land where the Masjid will be built (by the Madrasah ) in Miragoane, and the sod turning was done on Wednesday the 23rd of March 2011 (17th Rabii – ul – Aakhir 1432 A.H.). The location is at the top of a hill, overlooking the entire village, so the view, especially the sunrise and sunset, is very beautiful. All the students got a chance to help turn the soil.

We have only been able to start the wall for the perimeter so far. Because we are on a hill, trucks can only drop off the materials that we order (rocks, gravel, sand etc) at the bottom of the hill, and then we have to bring it up to the site.

We hope to collect enough funds to be able to complete the Masjid soon, Insha Allah.

Hosting a 3 day gathering on the last weekend of every month for the Muslims throughout Haiti, educating them about Islam.

Every month, we send out a group of our students to visit different parts of Haiti, to conduct Islamic programs and to invite the Muslims to a 3 days gathering by us, which is held in the last weekend of each month. During these 3 days, we teach everyone about the proper ways of Islam , so that they can get a better understanding , and then they can go back out to their villages, and help spread the truth about Islam.

The people of Chalon used to walk down to a river and dip out water with a bowl and fill their buckets. In March 2010, work started on a well to supply water to the villagers. A hand pump was installed and the well is so popular today that people from other villages walk from far to fetch water.

After successfully supervising and spearheading one of the only functioning wells in Miragoane, The R.E.A.D Foundation has embarked on a drive to partner with other organizations, to provide water wells throughout Haiti , Insha Allah.

There is a great need for water in Haiti, and more so, for CLEAN water. Through these projects, we will install hand-pumps and have water treatments for the wells.

Digging these wells is a very long and difficult process here in Haiti, since there is a lack of suitable equipment and sometimes because of the difficulty in the location of the well. You have to dig out huge boulders from beneath the ground, and sometimes, after 45 feet, you still don’t reach water.

Insha Allah, we hope to source the proper equipment and tools to be able to fully accomplish the establisment of these wells.

We’re digging a second well by the Madrasah at present.

One of the wells in Miragoane (built by Muslims), where villagers come from miles to get clean water.

This polluted stream was the only source of water for the people of Miragoane before well was built.

The R.E.A.D Foundation is fortunate to be located in a very picturesque and tranquil environment.

A visit by us usually provides the opportunity for individuals to connect back with their Creator and to appreciate His creation more. We also have Islamic lectures and discussions that usually help open up everyone’s mind about their role as Muslims today.

In March 2011, we hosted a one week Youth Program for students from HHRD’s program entitled Muslims for Haiti . Alhamdulillah, their visit was enjoyed by all. They did some work on one of the buildings and organized a clean-up of the compound on another day. We held an interactive discussion about Islam which had a great impact on all.

In June 2011, we hosted some other students from Muslims Without Borders (MWB). They came and assisted in casing a well and planting some trees around the compound.

We hope to have another Youth Camp in December 2011, Insha Allah.