The Dominican Republic is home to thousands of hired hands from the sugar plantations – many have come across the border from war, disaster and poverty-ravaged Haiti. Thousands of people who have made the trip across the border now live in unsanitary conditions, in shacks made of sticks and rubble on less than £1 a day.

The charity The Samaritan Foundation has been building whole villages for the slum-dwellers of Sosua – so far 1,000 houses have been built.

Our Involvement: Mission Direct has been partnering with The Samaritan Foundation on the current building project since 2006, and has assisted with the building of 50 houses in the new village of Esperanza, including mixing cement, laying blocks, plastering and decorating. Volunteers often give new occupants items such as mattresses and bedding.

Outcomes: Fifty families have had their quality of life improved immeasurably, from the incredible squalor of their shacks. Their health, security and well-being are also hugely affected.

Feeding programmes

You will be joining church-run feeding programmes operating some of the most destitute communities. You will bring food packs that last a week, and get to meet the families and hear their stories.

Hospital visit

There is a visit to a local hospital. You can talk and pray with the patients and their families, as well as bringing them sanitary goods and toys for the children.

Aguas Negras

Aguas Negras (translation: Black Water) is a community outreach project in a heavily polluted slum area by the coast. The project offers schooling, a medical clinic, family support and much else.