OUR STORY
In the beginning of 2016, Diesmy Garcon and his wife, decided to take in 7 children that were orphaned and abandoned, in Montrouis Haiti. They already had 2 biological children of their own. But felt God was leading them to do this. With little to no money, Diesmy and his extended family members started to build a home, for these kids. Before the house was completed, there were 12 kids living there. The house was called Kay Refij. (House of Refuge)
In June of that year, Kim and I (Porta) met Deismy for the first time, when we stayed at his guesthouse. We were heart broken over the conditions of Kay Refij, and decided that we wanted to help. This was the start of the nonprofit: Loving Kay Refij.
Since that day, we have not only helped support Kay Refij, but have been able to provide help and build self-sustainable opportunities for other people in the community of Montrouis Haiti. We've helped single moms and widows of Montrouis, to provide for their families.
God is moving us into a new direction, in the year 2022. We will be starting a Discipleship Training Program. This is a 3 month program, lead by Haitains, to build disciples and leaders of God for Haiti. We also will be investing into the spiritual growth of the children of Kay Refij, as well as the worker'd children and the neighborhood children of Kay Refij, by starting a AWANA's program. This program will help ground the kids in the Gospel as they learn about the Bible, Jesus and Salvation.
Pray for us, as we advance this ministry for the Glory of God.
In June of that year, Kim and I (Porta) met Deismy for the first time, when we stayed at his guesthouse. We were heart broken over the conditions of Kay Refij, and decided that we wanted to help. This was the start of the nonprofit: Loving Kay Refij.
Since that day, we have not only helped support Kay Refij, but have been able to provide help and build self-sustainable opportunities for other people in the community of Montrouis Haiti. We've helped single moms and widows of Montrouis, to provide for their families.
God is moving us into a new direction, in the year 2022. We will be starting a Discipleship Training Program. This is a 3 month program, lead by Haitains, to build disciples and leaders of God for Haiti. We also will be investing into the spiritual growth of the children of Kay Refij, as well as the worker'd children and the neighborhood children of Kay Refij, by starting a AWANA's program. This program will help ground the kids in the Gospel as they learn about the Bible, Jesus and Salvation.
Pray for us, as we advance this ministry for the Glory of God.
MEET OUT TEAM
Porta Schut: Founder of Loving Kay Refij
Revelations 4:11 "Worthy are You, our Lord and God, to recieve glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created." A graduate of Cornerstone University with a bachelors in Business and a minor in Art, I love that I have been able to use my talent and education in my career as a Merchandiser, to help my customers succeed! I reside in Rockford Mi. with my supportive husband of 28 yrs. I have 2 grown amazing children and one grandson, who will change the world someday. I embarked on my first trip to Montrouis Haiti, in 2016. Knowing God had sent me there with a purpose. This trip left me amazed by the beauty and yet wrecked by the poverty. Since then I have been unapologetic to helping improve the lives of those God was asked us to look after and take care of…. the orphans and widows. James 1:27. My ultimate goal is to bring people to Christ, being like Jesus, and being a light of God! But, supporting those in need until they can support themselves is so important to me! Helping them to be self-supportive is my end plan! Helping people connect with Loving Kay Refij, and the people of Haiti, will help! |
Kim Greenfield: Board Member, Accountant
"Let all that I do be done with love." 1 Corinthians 16:14 My first trip to Haiti was in June 2002 with Evelyn Boyd, a great Christian lady who attended my local church. Evelyn started an orphanage in Cap Haitian in the 80’s. For most all of my trips to Haiti, I have been part of a medical mission team of doctors out of Johnson City, TN. Through the years and yearly trips, my connections across the island have grown. I became acquainted with Diesmy Garcon and the orphanage of Kay Refij on a summer language trip in 2016. I have great compassion for children who have no source of support. I am excited to be on this board and look forward to seeing all of the children accomplish great things for the kingdom of God. I graduated from Texas A&M University, College Station, TX in 1987 with a Bachelor’s degree in Finance. I live in San Angelo, TX. I am married and have one son Nathan Meredith. I am in love with God our father and only seek to please Him in all that I do. |
Charles Joseph Walkons: Board Member, Projects Coordinator
A father of five, with two step daughters. I am a preferred roofing contractor in the greater Grand Rapids area, with twenty + years experience. Happily married to my wife Misty for 10 years. I made my first trip to Haiti in 2015, where I felt Gods Amazing Grace come over me. Recharging and reconnecting me to the truest purpose of my life. Using my abilities to ignite and excite people, and to use my construction skills to help others. “He has saved us and called us to a holy life -not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time.” 2 Timothy 1:9. In this I hope to continue to be a part of helping others to see and feel the endless love and grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, while helping to encourage self- sustainability. All the while sharing the gospel. |
Jimmy Jean Phillippe: Field Advisor of Loving Kay Refij and Director of Kay Refij
My wife, Carine and I reside in Montrouis, Haiti. I have been a English teacher and School Administrator, but my heart and passion is with the kids of Kay Refij. My wife has just graduated from nursing school. Her knowledge and experience is a great asset. Together we are raising the kids of Kay Refij to be future leaders of God, in Haiti. I take the responsibility seriously, knowing that I have to provide the best that I can with God's provision, and steward it the best way I can. |
Diesmy Garcon: Owner of Kay Refij
I am an entrepreneur, a pioneer and a leader in the community of Montrouis, Haiti. My wife Viliene and I, have decided to care for children whose families can no longer support them. We encourage parents, who are able to support their children again, to unify again. God has encouraged me to raise these children as my own, as Godly leaders of Haiti. We have started a farm, that will provide food and income to support my family and the kids of Kay Refij, and provide job opportunities for my community. |
Evinel Joseph: Director of Discipleship and Spiritual Training
My wife, Clairna and daughter, Niveca and I reside in Montrouis Haiti. I have been a 5th grade teacher at a local school. My passion is teaching the Bible and preaching the Gospel. God has called me to teach people to be disciples and leaders for the future of Haiti. |