What is the first step I should take to go on a HOPE trip?
Complete a Trip Request Form to make sure there is room on the trip you are requesting. This does not register you for a trip. You will be contacted as to space availability for the dates you request.
Is there a deadline for registering for a trip?
Yes in most cases. You must complete our online registration (a link will be sent to you) at least three months prior to the trip. The exception to that is if there is space available inside the three month deadline. Do know that trips fill up quickly. Check the trip dates page to make sure the trip you are requesting is still open.
What is the cost of the trip?
The cost is $700 plus airfare, which includes:
- Lodging for five nights
- Food for two meals per day (which is what we have while there)
- Transportation to, and from the airport and while in Haiti
- Trip insurance
NOTE: We will purchase your airfare unless prior arrangements have been made with the Haiti Orphan Project.
Is a deposit required to reserve a spot on a trip?
Yes. We require a $250 deposit at the time of your registration or at least three months prior to your trip dates. There is no deposit required to simply fill out a Trip Request form. In any case you do not have a guaranteed spot until the $250 deposit has been made. Spots are reserved on a “first come first served” basis. This deposit is non-refundable. Please see below our cancellation policy.
When will payment be expected?
Final payment for your trip fee and purchased flight is due once your flight has been booked. You will receive an invoice from HOPE for the trip fee plus your flight cost less any deposits and/or other payments.
May I make my own flight arrangements?
We at HOPE usually make all the flight arrangements. However, if you have reason to make your own, that is fine. We will need you to coordinate with us at HOPE to ensure that we all fly into and out of Haiti on the same flights.
How do I make my trip payment?
You may mail a check made payable to:
The Haiti Orphan Project
135 West Adams Ave.
Kirkwood, MO 63122
Attention: Lauren Jones
**Please add your name/trip date in the memo portion of your check.
You may also make your payment securely online.
What if I have to cancel my trip?
If you have to cancel for any reason, here is how it works:
- The trip fee, once paid in full, cannot be refunded. However, you may ask us to apply the trip fee (less the $250 deposit) to a future trip for you or someone else.
- If we have purchased your airline ticket, you will be responsible for that cost. But if you do cancel, it is your ticket and you will have up to a year from booking date to use it for yourself (only) on any other flight, Haiti or not. Your additional cost would be a ticket change fee and any difference in fare for the new flight. Could be more, could be less depending on where you go.
What if I need medical attention while in Haiti?
Part of your trip fee includes the purchase of a short-term international medical policy. More information on the coverage may be found at www.aaintl.com. In addition, we usually have a medical professional on each trip.
Is it safe in Haiti?
Traveling in Haiti is as safe or safer than many US cities. While we cannot guarantee complete safety at all times, we do everything to be responsible in where and how we travel in Haiti. The guest houses where we stay have 24/7 professional security. Our drivers and translators are well experienced and know where to go and where not to go.
Those of us at HOPE have had no reservations taking our spouses and children on these trips and have done so.
