Rotary Club of Sanibel-Captiva Awards Grant to Haiti Grass Project

Better Universe and Citizens is pleased to announce the receipt of a grant from the Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club for the initiative to grow native grasses on deforested Haitian mountainsides for the purpose of stabilizing topsoil surface and tree reforestation. Rotary provides phenomenal service work around the world and is credited to have contributed significantly toward the elimination of polio.

The Better Universe and Citizens initiative Haiti Grass Project plants drought tolerant and deep-rooted grasses to reduce soil erosion in Haiti. The grass reduces water runoff which increases infiltration to refill underground aquifers. The deep-rooted grass stabilizes existing soil and contributes much-needed soil health conditions for growing trees. Due to the wide spacing trees are planted, they take time before providing erosion control. Grasses provide this initial control while tree establish. 

The Haiti Grass Project fits with three Rotary Focus areas, providing clean water, environmental and reducing poverty. With the grant for $1500, The Rotary Club of Sanibel- Captiva is the longest-serving Rotary supporter of the Haiti Grass Project, dating back to 2018. The Haiti Grass Project has also received support from other clubs in Rotary District 6960 including the Fort Myers Rotary Club, Fort Myers South, and Anna Maria Island.

Founder and Executive Director of Better Universe and Citizens, Dr. Tawainga Katsvairo, expressed great appreciation for the collaborative partnerships with these Rotary clubs.

Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club Secretary Chet Sadler acknowledged the magnitude of work that still needs to be done in Haiti. We are continuously looking for donations and support for the Haiti Grass Project.