There are numerous ways to help the poor of Haiti, many of whom suffered greatly in the January 2010 earthquake that struck near Port Au Prince. This is one more, but a unique means of making a lasting difference in the lives of at least a few fishing families in western Haiti. As people move away from Port Au Prince, outlying areas are being stressed as people try to support the quickly expanding population. A good fishing boat can help feed the hungry for years to come. The Haiti Boat Project will get underway in the spring of 2010 and will be completed as time and money and health allow. Like previous community boat building projects I have organized and supervised, this one will include the volunteer labor of students (particularly a Confirmation student I have) and adults and will be financed through the generosity of donors. The finished boat will be 15.5 feet in length and will be driven by a sprit sail. This is a simple sail plan typical of fishing boats in Haiti where power boats are rarely seen. As with a previous project, this boat will be shipped to Haiti through the Haitian Health Foundation and will be cooperatively owned by a local fishing association. Fishers will take turns using it. The boat will be constructed of marine plywood and sheathed in 6 oz. biaxial fiberglass cloth and resin, double thick on most of the bottom, triple thick forward. It will feature fishing decks fore and aft as is traditional in Haiti where men fish standing up with nets and traps. A Pay Pal account will collect all donations and will be available for public viewing as requested. Names of donors will be listed here. Thank you for your help. -Cap'n Fishguts If you have any questions about the project, please feel free to contact me: CONTACT