Joyce Dawson-Watts annually runs a mission drive for the people of Haiti, thus keeping a vow the Newport resident made many years ago.
“I made a promise to God that this is what I will do ‘till I die,” she said.
The 10th drive for the “Group of Global Outreach for all God’s People” will take place at Dawson Watts’ home at 15 Calvert St. at 9 a.m. on Saturday, May 4. Volunteers are welcome to pack toys, food, toiletries, clothing, and school and medical supplies.
Those unable to volunteer who would like to donate items can do so on that day. Donations are also accepted year-round for Haiti, for an orphanage in Trinidad, and for members of Aquidneck Island’s community. Monetary donations are also appreciated. Checks should be made out to Ebenezer Cargo Shipping Company.
Dawson-Watts grew up in Trinidad and Tobago. “We were very poor, but my family always gave back when we were able,” she said.
Now a great-grandmother, she said the children of Haiti are her passion, and that she chose to make the region a mission project after visiting the island and witnessing the hunger and pain that the people were going through.
“I love my mission. We need to love each other, we need to help each other,” she said.
Dawson-Watts also helps people locally. “I have to take care of home first,” she said.
Dawson-Watts coordinates distribution of the shipment with Elmwood Avenue Church of God, 297 Elmwood Ave., Providence. For more information: call her at 401- 258-3845.
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