FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Since COTP only takes babies, what happens to the babies when they get older?
A: Each baby has it’s own discharge plan depending on that child’s circumstances. Our first goal is always to reunite children with their families. If this is not possible than we help facilitate an adoption for the child. We will always keep a child until they are able to be united with a family, whether it’s biological or adoptive.  During their time with us, we try to help each child develop physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

Q: Does COTP take in babies that are HIV positive?
A: Yes, we do. We test each of our children when they are first admitted. If their test is positive for HIV, we go to Hospital Sacre’ Coeur in Milot to start them in the HIV/AIDS program there. They get blood tests once a month and will be given free antiretroviral (ARV’s) medication based on the results of their blood tests.

Q: Where do these babies come from?
A: Our children come to us in many different ways. Often families will come to our gate after one of the babies parents have passed away or if they are going through a hard time. The two hospitals in the area will contact us if they have an abandoned child there. Our Haitian staff, as well as families who we have helped in the past, will refer families who they know need help. We do not admit every baby into our care who comes to our gates. We only admit children who are sick or malnourished, or if we feel that they will become sick or malnourished if we to not intervene.

Q: Is COTP an orphanage?
A: Technically, we are not an orphanage. We are an infant care center, or creche as it is called in Haiti. It is a transition home providing 24 hour care for infants in need until they can be returned to their biological family or, if that’s not possible, are adopted into a new family.

Q: What is the process to adopt a child from COTP?
A: The best answers can be found on our adoption page.

Q: How many staff do you have?
A: We have over 80 staff employed at COTP. This includes nannies, cooks, laundry, housekeeping and yard maintenance staff. They are all paid staff and receive their meals here while they are working. The American, Canadian, and European volunteer staff raise their own support and are not paid employees.

Q: What do we need the most?
A: Our biggest need to care for all these babies is monetary. If you wish to send items, please check out needs list and instructions for sending donations and boxes. All checks and monetary donations can be mailed to Children of the Promise, Box 97, Prinsburg, MN 56281.  Also, check out our option for making online donations or setting up regular monthly donations.  Your gifts to COTP are tax deductable in the U.S and Canada.

Q: How many nannies do you have to a baby?
A: That depends on the age of the infants and their developmental needs. In our special needs rooms we have 1 nanny to 1-2 children, depending on their needs. In the Giraff (smallest infants) room is 1:2 ratio while our other rooms have a 1:3 ratio!