June 2026

June 2026
Dear Friends,
While the chaos continues in Haiti with gangs controlling much of the country, it causes discouragement at times.  I often wonder what the future holds for our ministry and will it ever get back to normal.  And then I think back to our beginning in 1998 and the Starfish Story which ends with, “We made a difference for this one,” and I Thessalonians 5:24 which says, “Faithful is He who has called you and He also will bring it to pass.” 
God does in fact “bring it to pass” and we see it in the lives of the many in whom we have the opportunity to make a difference.  One of the 88 who we currently support in high school, trade school, or university, is Benjina.  Just today I received the following letters from Benjina, telling her story and telling of her gratefulness for the support she receives.
Port-au-Prince, May 29, 2026
My name is Benjina SAINT-NORVIL, I am 21 years old and I am a second-year medical student at the University of the Dr Aristide Foundation (UNIFA).
In July 2022, I went through a difficult ordeal when I was kidnapped. After my release, I received support that helped me rebuild my life and regain confidence in the future.
Despite this experience, I continued my studies at the IMSA, the Tricotte high school, until I successfully passed my official exams. Determined to realize my dream of becoming a doctor, I then came to Port-au-Prince to pursue university studies.
My first days at university were challenging. I had to adapt to a new learning system while also facing difficulties related to the country’s situation, transportation, and the resources needed for my studies. However, I persevered and continued to move forward.
Today, thanks to the support of Starfish Ministries, I am pursuing my medical training with seriousness and determination. My goal is to become a pediatrician in order to contribute to improving children’s health and serve my community.
My journey has taught me that, even in the face of adversity, faith, courage and perseverance allow us to continue moving towards our goals.
Sincerely,
Benjina SAINT-NORVIL
And then this letter of gratitude:
To Mr. Bernie
Staff Sponsorship – Starfish Ministries (SFM)
Subject: Thank you
Sir,
I greet you in the precious name of Jesus Christ and hope that you are well.
As a beneficiary of the Starfish Ministries program, I wish to express my deepest gratitude for your support in my pursuit of medical studies. Thanks to your generosity, your trust, and your commitment to youth education, I can continue to move towards realizing my dream of becoming a doctor.
Your investment in our training represents much more than financial assistance: it is a true source of hope and a valuable opportunity to build a better future for ourselves, our families and our community.
I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to Mr. Daniel Thélusmond, the organization’s director, for his dedication, support, and constant efforts to foster our academic success. His commitment and leadership greatly contribute to creating an environment conducive to our development and growth.
I sincerely thank you, and the entire Starfish Ministries team, for your continued support, trust, and the opportunities you provide. Please be assured that I am pursuing my studies with seriousness, determination, and gratitude.
Please accept, Sir, and the entire team at Starfish Ministries, the expression of my most respectful greetings.
Respectfully,
Benjina SAINT-NORVIL
God is using Starfish Ministries to make a significant difference in Benjina’s life.  When I receive letters like this, I am encouraged and trust that you are as well.  With your support, Benjina has the opportunity to realize her dream of making a difference in the lives of the children who otherwise may not have access to medical care.
Thank you for your faithful financial support and your prayers.  God is using you to make a difference in the lives of Benjina and many more.
Serving the Lord together,
Bernie, Sheryl & Philip Bovenkamp