THE HISTORY OF HFC

The calling for the Hope for the Children of Haiti ministry began with Marion Austin, a woman of incredible courage and determination, who, at the age of 67, decided it was not too late to make a difference. After retiring from the US military with twenty years of service as a diet therapist, Marion was determined “not to just sit around,” and she began traveling to Haiti to help in whatever way she could. At first, she planned a daily nutritional meal for more than 1500 children at a large Christian orphanage. Eventually, she partnered with co-founder Dr. Jacob Bernard and they began the process of starting a new orphanage by renovating a dilapidated school building. Through their dedication and compassion, that building now stands three stories tall and is the home to Hope for the Children of Haiti.

Marion passed away in 2005, but HFC continues her mission in the name of Christ. Her legacy is perhaps best exemplified by Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians 1:4: “God comforts us in all of our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.”

Marion strongly believed in empowering the Haitian children with the tools that they need to succeed, knowing they would one day become excellent Christian leaders and role models in Haitian society. Marion’s story is an inspiration to all of us who carry on her dream.

About Lee Stone

Lee joined the Board of HFC in 2014 after returning from his first mission trip to the Marion Austin School and Orphanage and in March 2015 came on staff as Executive Director. Stuck with a profound sense that God is at work in the lives of the children, teachers and staff, he was compelled to step up and onto the board to help ensure the future of HFC and all those who are impacted by our work. He brings many years of financial management and board experience to bear. Lee is an active and contributing member of Grace Chapel in Lexington, MA and is pursuing a Masters in Divinity from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. He lives in Greater Boston area with his wife Laura and two amazing children, Sophie and Jackson.