Oklahoma City Man to Return to Hometown in Haiti to Help

By Kirsten McIntyre, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- For an Oklahoma City man, watching the destruction in Haiti is all too personal. He was born and raised in Haiti and so far, has lost five relatives to the deadly earthquake. Now, he's on a mission to spread hope.

Jean Lainé has a fascinating life story. He was born in the mountains of Haiti and didn't begin school until he was 13 years old. But, he now has his doctorate in education and plans to use it to help rebuild Haiti.

Lainé looks through photo albums and thinks back to life in Haiti as a child and the home he grew up in.

"I wanted to be able to get out of the situation with the idea someday to come back," Lainé said.

Knowing education was the key Lainé left Haiti when he was 26 years old and came to the United States. He later returned for two years as a missionary where he preached the Gospel and ministered to those in need. Since then, they've been partnering with about 20 pastors in Haiti to begin churches and also run 11 schools.

"I wanted to be able to make a difference," Lainé said.

Lainé returned to the United States, but didn't leave behind his passion to help the Haitian people. He and his brother started Power Mission, an organization to provide funds for churches and schools.

"We have 11 schools, but they are makeshift buildings, very poor situations," Lainé said.

Since the earthquake Lainé and his brother have realized another need, an orphanage, which is a new ministry for them.

"We saw fit to build an orphanage because there's going to be a lot of kids whose parents perished in the killer quake," Lainé said.

Using the Internet, Power Mission is trying to get the word out and raise money. And, very soon, Lainé's brother, who's also involved in missions, will travel to Haiti.

"They need someone to tell them that yes, in spite of the situation there is hope," said Lainé. "There is hope for them."

Lainé now works for the Putnam City School District. Since the earthquake, he and his brother have raised about $2,500.