Haitian Heritage House builds community and opportunity in Trenton
The organization's mission is rooted in empowerment, cultural preservation, and economic development.
As Haitian Heritage Month is celebrated throughout May, one Trenton-based nonprofit is making a lasting impact by helping Haitian families navigate life in the United States while preserving the culture and traditions they hold dear.
Founded in 2022 by Dardelle Francois, the Haitian Heritage House serves as a bridge between the Haitian community and critical resources, connecting residents with employment opportunities, healthcare access, maternal support services and public programs. The organization's mission is rooted in empowerment, cultural preservation, and economic development.
The idea for Haitian Heritage House began long before its arrival in New Jersey.
Francois, who has more than 15 years of experience supporting USAID-aligned development initiatives in Haiti, originally launched the concept to address food insecurity in northern Haiti. Working alongside community leaders, she helped train between 75 and 100 women to grow crops such as onions, hot peppers and tomatoes in their own yards.
"Because in Haiti, a lot of us have access to land, even if it's on our own private property," Francois explained. "That inspiration came from the Dominican border being closed. We noticed there was a huge food shortage because we got a lot of stuff from the Dominican Republic. I was like, 'well, we can grow our own onions, hot peppers and tomatoes.'"
When political instability in Haiti disrupted community programs, Francois relocated to New Jersey in 2024 and quickly noticed a different set of challenges facing Haitian immigrants.
"I got to Mercer County, I looked around and I'm like, there's very little representation for my people," Francois said. "So I started knocking on doors. I spoke to the county executive, the mayors, the governor — whoever would listen — and I'm like, 'We are here. We need support. We need services.'"
The Haitian Heritage House currently focuses on helping Haitian families overcome barriers related to language access, employment, healthcare and navigating public services.
"Truly anything and everything that we can do to help them elevate, to help them find additional resources, additional help, to help them survive this new system and new country they are in," Francois said.
The organization has also made education and workforce development a priority. Through partnerships with the New Jersey Department of Labor, Mercer County Community College, and Capital Health, community members have gained access to forklift safety certification, healthcare career pathways and digital literacy training programs. Some participants even left with new laptops to continue their education and professional development.
One of the organization's most visible initiatives is Ti Mache, a community marketplace designed to spotlight Haitian-owned businesses, entrepreneurs, and artisans. The first event was held in March 2026 at Mercer County Community College, followed by a second edition in May.
Despite limited resources, Francois says the organization remains committed to creating opportunities for others.
"At this time, we don't have funding. It's just my husband and I," she said. "We're doing this out of the kindness of our heart. We are Haitian. We are proud Haitians. And one thing about our people is that we are resilient."
For vendors, Ti Mache provides more than just a place to sell products. It offers visibility, networking opportunities, and a sense of belonging.
Among the participating businesses is Marie's Caribbean Lemonade, which incorporates flavors inspired by Haiti and the Caribbean into refreshing beverage creations.
"We wanted to make sure that we bring that awareness and bring that to the forefront," said co – owner of Marie's Caribbean Lemonade, Kerleen Beaubrun. "See how the flavors of Haiti inspire all cultures, especially the Caribbean cultures throughout the diaspora. It was extremely important for us to make sure that was the forefront for our brand."
Events like Ti Mache reinforce the pride and support that exists within the Haitian community.
"It's imperative for the Haitian culture to know that there are always people backing them," said co-owner of Marie's Caribbean Lemonade, Bri Belizaire. "We are so proud of our culture, and it's just another chance for us to come together and know that you are not alone starting a business."
As Haitian Heritage Month comes to an end, the Haitian Heritage House continues to demonstrate that preserving culture and building opportunity can go hand in hand. Through advocacy, education and community engagement, the organization is helping Haitian families in New Jersey find the support they need while ensuring their heritage remains visible and celebrated.
