Dominican Republic
Open Country Menu
The Need
The Dominican Republic is home to approximately 230 bateyes (settlements surrounded by sugarcane plantations) that once played a major role in the national economy. Most of these bateyes are settled by Haitian immigrants, who feel the direct effects of a long history of dispute and hatred between the two neighboring countries. These communities tend to be the most vulnerable of the poor areas in the DR due to a lack of basic infrastructure.
Dominican Republic At A Glance
Climate Tropical
Current Temp: 90°
Population
10,298,756 (appx. 7% live in Bateyes)
Religion
93.8% Christian
Language
Haitian Creole, Spanish
Region
Caribbean
the Dominican Republic Information
Religion
93.8% Christian
Poverty
30.5% of Dominicans live in poverty throughout the country. This percentage is much higher in bateyes where we serve.
Currency
$1 USD = 54.23 Dominican Pesos (DOP)
Economy
Many Haitians move to across the border in search of a job and send money back to their families. Because of this, the Dominican Republic is responsible for ⅓ of Haiti’s GDP.