Clara Lionel Foundation joins Pockets of Hope

The Clara Lionel Foundation (CLF) and the W.K. Kellogg Foundation (WKKF) announced a joint investment of $1.5 million to support locally led efforts strengthening a future for Haitian children, families and communities.  

The announcement was made during the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI)’s Haiti Action Network, marking a commitment to Pockets of Hope — a campaign of WKKF and other partners that leverages funder resources to increase support for Haitian-led initiatives. The campaign also shifts the narrative about Haiti from one defined by crisis to one that highlights innovation and local leadership. 

Founded by Robyn “Rihanna” Fenty, CLF has long focused on communities most affected by climate change, health inequities and systemic injustices. Partnering with WKKF, which has invested in Haiti for more than three decades, CLF will help amplify local solutions designed to help families thrive. 

At CGI, Alix Cantave, senior program officer at the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, said CLF’s commitment reflects what is most needed in this moment — partners who invest directly in Haitian leadership and community-led change. “Real, lasting change can only come when solutions are led by Haitians, for Haitians,” Cantave said. 

Launched in 2023, Pockets of Hope spotlights initiatives already advancing progress in Haiti. Women-led organizations are expanding access to education and child development. Farmers’ cooperatives are growing food and building local economic security. Youth movements are creating new forms of civic engagement and leadership. 

In some rural communities, farmers now supply food directly to schools. The model reduces hunger, keeps children in classrooms, strengthens rural economies and builds community self-sufficiency. These efforts show how Haitian-led innovation can drive systemic transformation. 

Jessie Schutt-Aine, executive director of the Clara Lionel Foundation, underscored the partnership demonstrates a shared commitment to ensuring Haiti’s leadership is at the center of long-term solutions. “We’re all here with the shared belief that Haiti cannot be left behind — and that the Caribbean cannot thrive without Haiti. Through Pockets of Hope, we are investing in Haitian leadership, shifting the narrative from aid to investment, from crisis to resilience,” Schutt-Aine said. 

This new investment signals growing momentum for Pockets of Hope and invites additional partners to join in supporting Haitian leadership. As Cantave reminded participants at CGI: “Haiti needs partners.” 

Learn more about Pockets of Hope at HaitiPocketsOfHope.com