The island of Abaco, with its vibrant history woven by the Lucayan people and shaped by centuries of trade and cultural exchange, holds a special place in the heart of the Bahamas. This rich tapestry is not only woven with the threads of the Abaconian people but also with those of the Haitian diaspora, who have sought refuge and opportunity on these shores for decades. This diverse cultural landscape adds to the islands’ unique charm and resilience, but also presents shared challenges that have been deeply tested in recent years. The devastating impact of Hurricane Dorian in 2019, followed by the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, left the islands and its people grappling with immense hardship.

Pictured Above: Many Hands’ Camp Abaco found on the Abaco Islands. 

Pictured Above: Wreckage in Abaco as a result of Hurricane Dorian in 2019. The picture was taken in 2023. 

Amidst the wreckage and despair, the spirit of the Abaconian people shone through. Many Hands recognized this unwavering strength and committed to walking alongside the community, offering support and resources to help rebuild and reimagine their future. 

Pictured Above and Below: Wreckage in Abaco as a result of Hurricane Dorian in 2019. The pictures were taken in 2023. 

Many Hands was born in Haiti, grounded in the belief that every individual and community deserves a chance to thrive and know the goodness and love of God. Our work continues there, but recently, our hearts have expanded to embrace the island of Abaco recognizing the deep connection between these two communities. For decades, Abaconians and Haitians have shared an intertwined history as many Haitian families sought refuge and opportunity in Abaco. While they have contributed significantly to the local economy, many Haitians in Abaco live in informal settlements and often lack proper documentation, making them vulnerable to deportation and exploitation.

Pictured Above: Haitian Shanty Town in Abaco. 

Many Hands: Walking Alongside Abaco

Education emerged as a critical need in Abaco’s recovery, and is therefore one of Many Hands’ most prominent initiatives in the community. The combined impact of Dorian and the pandemic had a devastating effect on the education system, leaving many children years behind in their schooling. Many Hands, in partnership with the Central Abaco Primary School (CAPS), launched the Academic Recovery for Kids (ARK) program to address this urgent need. Through the ARK program, we’re providing targeted support and resources to help students catch up and thrive.

Pictured Above and Below: Students at Central Abaco Primary School (CAPS). 

Our donors and supporters make it possible for us to work hand-in-hand with the community on a range of other initiatives that address Abaco’s specific needs. From rebuilding projects, to supporting local initiatives through strong partnerships, Many Hands is committed to empowering Abaconians to take the lead in shaping their own future. 

Pictured Above: The Bahamian flag standing strong next to a resilient palm tree in Abaco.

We also recognize the importance of meeting immediate needs; our food distribution program provides vital sustenance to families and individuals throughout the community. Additionally, we work to preserve the islands’ unique cultural heritage and ecosystems through our previously mentioned educational opportunities, advocacy, and community-led conservation efforts.

Pictured Above: A Many Hands IMPACT trip participant took a picture of a stunning sunrise while enjoying coffee and reading God’s word, which is the perfect example of the simple beauty of Abaco. 

By fostering hope, empowering local initiatives, celebrating the unique spirit of Abaco, and using the community’s aspirations as a touchstone, we’re honored to play a part in this inspiring journey of resilience and transformation. We remain committed to walking alongside all members of the Abaconian community, advocating for their rights, and supporting them as they face shared challenges and work towards a brighter future.

Many Hands is an Iowa-based nonprofit creating local and global life transformation. Established in 2008, the organization aims to ignite generosity, grow community, and take people on IMPACT journeys to carve a new, better path to life. Each year, the organization reaches at least 25,000 people through its operations in the Caribbean, IMPACT Trips serving in Abaco, Bahamas, and Many Hands Thrift Markets located in Iowa.

Many Hands is called to transform together, to be love in action, in a broken world.