On Nov. 7, the club was honored to host the Second Annual Lamp for Haiti Reception. Under the direction of Lamp for Haiti founder Dr. James Morgan of Montclair, the Lamp for Haiti Health Center has provided health care, education and nutrition assistance in Cite Soleil, a congested urban area with more than 200,000 residents that’s among the most impoverished communities in the Western Hemisphere. “We were delighted by the turnout, and just as important, the chance to deliver the message of the Lamp’s mission to many friends, new and old alike,” Dr. Morgan said. “And we thank the Commonwealth Club for their generous hospitality.”
The Commonwealth Club’s support of the Lamp began after a devastating earthquake rocked the island in January 2010. Members and their families gathered first aid supplies and contributed financially to relief efforts. Luckily, Dr. Morgan had seen the need for a community clinic in Haiti and established one there several years before the earthquake struck.
An enthusiastic and large turnout at the Lamp’s reception was treated to Haitian music and had the chance to purchase Haitian jewelry, art and gifts. 100% of all proceeds went to the Lamp clinic. To hear a thought-provoking interview Dr. Morgan did recently with WBEZ public radio in Chicago, click here.