OUR MISSION….

…. is to work in partnership with the people of La Toti, to
implement community development and infrastructure projects that empower Haitians to rebuild and maintain their communities to secure their
futures.

Idovia Cadet

HOW OUR ORGANIZATION WAS FOUNDED

Bellot Idovia Foundation was started by Antoine and Will Bellot, two natives of La Toti, Haiti. On a visit in 2004, Will was shocked and devastated by the soil erosion problems, the lack of trees, the limited access to clean safe drinking water, the lack of adequate food production, and the disappearance of entire communities due to mudslides and flooding. People had been forced to move further south from the hillsides, crowding existing communities on the coast. Seeing this and the desire to give something back to their community was the motivation to start BIF.

THE VISION

Bellot Idovia Foundation’s vision is to work cooperatively with the Haitian people in La Toti to replenish the natural resources needed to restore the environment and prevent future flooding through tree planting projects, building rainwater catchment systems, canals, ramps and irrigation systems. Reforestation and sanitation have become the priorities within a list of growing concerns, including access to clean, safe drinking water, development of conservation, and educational programs so that La Toti citizens can support themselves and future generations.

OUR NAME

Both Louisaime Bellot and Idovia Cadet were born in the early 1900’s. They met in 1922 in Port-de-Paix where Idovia was born. Louisaime brought his beloved Idovia to his native village, La Valle, on the island of La Toti, where they were married and Idovia gave birth to their 20 children. Unfortunately, 8 of the children did not survive.

Louisaime had a passion for agriculture and made his living as a farmer. Idovia worked very hard alongside her husband, as they together raised crops and cared for their large family. Both Louisaime and Idovia loved people and looked for opportunities to give. They enjoyed sharing from what they had to help those in need. They were well known for their generosity. Louisaime and Idovia’s example and legacy of giving continues through their children, grandchildren, and now this organization.

The marriage of Louisaime and Idovia lasted 38 years, until the death of Louisaime in 1967. Idovia passed away in 1993. They were both buried in their beloved village of La Vallee on La Toti.

The Bellot Idovia Foundation has been formed in honor of Louisaime and Idovia Bellot to carry on their spirit of love and giving.