Support Creativity & Play Among Children of Haitian Descent
My incredible friend Gess is a beautiful person, mother, and visionary. She’s the kind of person who will extend herself deeply for friends and community. And is constantly making ripples in her family, community, and the world.
As a woman of Haitian descent, Gess continues to pour into her heart’s community. This year, she’s organizing to support The Joumou Fund & its annual fundraiser to provide gifts and a healthy meal to over 100 children & families of Haitian descent in the Dominican Republic.
The Joumou Fund
The Joumou Fund is a service based, social justice organization. Alongside established local organizations, they help alleviate poverty, create unity, and uplift communities of the African diaspora. Front and center in all of their initiatives is exploring issues of identity and belonging.
Annual Toy Drive & Fundraiser
Inspired by the creative ways that children play, founder Daphne Etienne started a toy drive & holiday celebration in 2016 to help encourage and foster creativity among children of Haitian descent in the “Batey” communities of the Dominican Republic and Haiti.
“Rich or poor, all children deserve to play.” — Daphne Etienne
How you can support
Our goal is to collect at least 200 toys & books to donate this holiday season.
Shop Kids’ Gifts from Black-Owned Businesses
Shop & ship directly to Daphne at The Jomou Fund while supporting black-owned small businesses.
Some shops that we have bookmarked:
- Puzzle Huddle — children’s jigsaw puzzles featuring diverse characters
- Little Likes Kids — a trusted source for thoughtfully designed, quality toys
- Brown Toy Box — changing the narrative, inspiring & equipping young Black innovators
- Paper Play + Wonder — a black-owned printable toy shop created by a mom wanting to build a culturally inclusive line of toys that promote positive self identity and belonging for her kids and countless others
Or, get inspired through gift guides here:
- 24 Gifts for Kids from Black-Owned Businesses from Jenna Milliner-Waddell at NY Mag
Message us for the shipping address!
Browse the Amazon Wishlist
Browse & ship toys and necessities directly to The Jomou Fund through their Amazon Wishlist.
Donate Directly
Donate any amount directly to The Jomou Fund to support this program:
- Donate via website
- Zelle, Venmo, or Paypal at daphney@joumoufund.org
If you have additional questions or concerns — please reach out!
Feel free to reach out over email or Instagram. We’re here to make this fundraising as supportive as possible. Thank you for the generosity!
