In Haiti, approximately 300,000 to 500,000 children are restaveks. The term “restavek” is interchangeable with international definitions of child trafficking—it constitutes modern-day slavery. The restavek system is rooted in poverty, where families, unable to provide for their children, send them to work as domestic servants in exchange for food and shelter. Restaveks often endure long hours of labor without adequate food, education, or medical care, making them vulnerable to further exploitation and abuse. In light of recent trouble in Haiti, this situation has become especially urgent.

Haiti has been plagued by political instability and social unrest, and this often leads to an increase in the number of children in the restavek system. Displacement from homes under any circumstances can leave children with no safe options, pushing them into servitude. Social violence only makes things worse.

The 2024 Walk for Restaveks serves as a platform to raise awareness about and advocate for the rights of restavek children in Haiti. Everyone who participates will walk together, praying for these children while taking active steps toward ending child slavery in Haiti. All funds raised will go directly to care for and support restavek children. By joining us at our annual Walk for Restaveks, you contribute to a larger movement seeking to address the root causes of child slavery in Haiti, helping to break the cycle of abuse and exploitation.

The Walk for Restaveks is more than just a walk; it is a step towards justice for the countless children suffering under the restavek system. Together, we can raise our voices against child exploitation and advocate for a future where every child in Haiti has the opportunity to thrive. Join us on October 5 to stand in solidarity with restavek children and make a meaningful impact in their lives for the gospel.

If you’re a Southern California resident, register today for the Walk for Restaveks! If you’re not local to California, you can still participate in this ministry effort by creating your own fundraising page to raise support for the work in Haiti—we invite you to partner with us today!