Captain Haiti Foundation Secures $5 Million to Fight Gentrification and Revitalize Little Haiti

Captain Haiti Foundation’s Ambitious $5 Million Initiative

On May 17, the Captain Haiti Foundation announced an ambitious fundraising endeavor, securing a whopping $5 million through a partnership with private equity firm Dargent Group. The foundation, classified as a 4947(a)(1) charitable trust, has ventured into the world of blockchain technologies. Their aim? To tackle Miami’s housing crisis and combat the gentrification that threatens the Haitian community in the Magic City.

The Little Haiti Walls Initiative

Nandy Martin, affectionately dubbed Captain Haiti, chairs the foundation and is on a mission to help residents acquire land, family homes, and commercial properties in Miami’s Little Haiti neighborhood. Picture this: if they can replicate just 5% of the success seen with Wynwood’s Wall, the potential is staggering. The Little Haiti Walls initiative could attract 150,000 tourists each year, injecting much-needed revenue into local businesses and fostering the cultural exchange that makes cities vibrant.

First Steps: A Musical NFT Adventure

But wait, it gets better! To kick off the project, Martin’s first step is to collaborate with Web3 music infrastructure provider Nusic. This partnership will unveil a limited edition collection of geo-located music non-fungible tokens (NFTs) that will grant collectors first-option purchasing rights to real estate in Little Haiti. A genius way to meld art, culture, and property investment!

Beautifying Little Haiti: A Community Effort

Not only is the foundation focused on property acquisition, but they also aim to beautify the area. With a goal of raising $300,000 to enhance the aesthetics of Little Haiti, 30% of this budget will be funneled towards community efforts like cleanups, public art, and the planting of greenery – all under the banner of the “Little Haiti Walls.” Just think of how a few new plants can brighten a neighborhood!

Historic Backing and Community Support

This isn’t the first rodeo for Martin with blockchain. He had previously secured the backing of notable figures, such as Charles Hoskinson, founder of Cardano, and Miami District Commissioner Jeffrey Watson. Watson originally allocated $200,000 to support 40 local businesses importing Haitian goods. And let’s not forget the creation of the Little Haiti Coin on the Cardano blockchain, designed to offer discounts on Haitian imports. Talk about community spirit!

Advocating Against Gentrification

Known for his whimsical shield and cape outfit reminiscent of Captain America, Martin is a vocal advocate for preventing gentrification that drives out long-time residents due to skyrocketing housing prices. In a compelling letter of support from Ashley Toussaint, co-chair of the Little Haiti Revitalization Trust, the urgent call to preserve the Little Haiti Wall project was clear:

“I kindly request your support… to ensure that the artistic and cultural heritage of Little Haiti is preserved for future generations to enjoy and learn from.”

Ultimately, this initiative carries the hope of rejuvenating a community, preserving its rich tapestry of culture while fostering equitable growth that keeps Little Haiti a vibrant part of Miami.