Film Lens
This documentary focuses on the severe food crisis in Haiti, highlighting the struggles of its people in the face of rising food prices and poverty. It illustrates how the country, once self-sufficient in agriculture, now imports over half of its food due to the removal of tariffs on foreign goods. The film captures the daily lives of Haitians, such as 61-year-old Pette Camille, who shares a single biscuit with her grandchildren, showcasing the dire circumstances many face as they turn to mud cookies as a cheap food source.
The film also addresses the wider effects of Haiti's reliance on international aid and the chronic weakness of its government. It features commentary from Joel B, the head of the UN development program in Haiti, who expresses disbelief at how Haitians manage to survive on less than $1 per day. The documentary emphasizes the importance of community support, as families share meals in times of need, reflecting the endurance of the Haitian people amidst ongoing hardship.
Why Watch
- •See how Haitians cope with extreme food prices.
- •Meet Pette Camille sharing a meal with her grandchildren.
- •Find out why Joel B calls Haitian survival a miracle.
- •Discover the role of community in overcoming hunger.
Did You Know
•Rice has become a luxury item in Haiti due to skyrocketing food prices.
•Over half of all food consumed in Haiti is imported at high prices.
•The average Haitian earns around $200 a month, making meals costly.
•Mud cookies, made from toxic mud, cost around 12 cents each.
Perfect For
Food security advocatesHumanitarian aid supportersGlobal poverty researchers