Our Story
Who We Are
Miss Marie-Claire Heureuse has been on the grounds of the City of Dessalines since December 2015 providing Food assistance to families in need, and school supplies to needy students. Since the Assassination of Haiti's President Jovenel Moises on July 7th 2021, things have drastically deteriorated and we realized we needed to be able to do more. In response to the growing crisis in Haiti, In 2025 Miss Marie Claire Heureuse was Legally registered in the Stated of Florida and received its 501c3 status for the IRS in October of 2025. Our Founder Laineda Dumerjean a Former Dependency Case manager and current Family Advocate in Palm Beach County knew Marie Claire Heureuse could provide direct support to the impacted area of L'Artibonite. With 8 years of Social Work experience ranging from Child Protective Services to Homeless Diversion, Laineda realized she could use her work experience to rally the supported her hometown and country desperately needed.
Mission
At Miss Marie-Claire Heureuse, our mission is to empower marginalized communities in Haiti by providing essential resources and support. We are committed to promoting education, health, and social equity, ensuring that every individual has the chance to thrive. Through our innovative programs, we aim to inspire change and foster a culture of compassion and collaboration. We believe in the power of community and the strength found in unity as stated in our Flag "L'Union Fait La Force"
Inspired by the values of empathy and community service, we prioritize sustainable development initiatives that foster resilience and hope. Our visual narrative highlights the strength and potential of individuals coming together to create transformative change.Our initiatives are designed to uplift those in need, advocate for social justice, and encourage active participation in building a better future. Join us in making a difference and spreading hope to those who need it most.
Who Was Marie Claire Heureuse Félicité Bonheur Dessalines
A symbol of Courage and Generosity
Marie Claire Heureuse was Born May 8, 1758 in Léogâne, Marie-Claire's education was entrusted from a very young age to her aunt, Élise Lobelot, a governess for the Dominican friars. It was within this parish setting that she grew up and acquired the Christian values of charity and kindness that defined her throughout her life. During the revolutionary war, the Jacmel was under siege, Marie Claire Heureuse publicly begged General Jean Jacques Desaslines for permission to enter Jacmel to give aid to the wounded soldiers. She helped many starving people at a time when the entire city was ravaged by famine. she sent food, clothing, and medicine, and organized street meals within the city. Throughout the War of Independence, she cared for many wounded. In this capacity, she was the first nurse in Haitian history. Marie Claire Heureuse quickly distinguished herself by her kindness and compassion for those in need. Marie Claire Heureuse won the heart of General Jean Jacques Dessalines and the two later married. Marie Claire publicly begged her husband on her knees to save French colonists and prisoners from execution. In 1804, Jean Jacques Dessalines became Emperor of Haiti under the name Jacques I, and Marie-Claire became Empress.
From a young girl of the people to empress, Marie-Claire Félicité Bonheur left her mark on the history of the Haitian Revolution through her courage and compassion. This organization will honor her legacy and strive to continue her work.
Our Team
Laineda Dumerjean
Founder & Executive Director
Schnison Tibeau
Chief Financial Officer
Alain M Joseph
Media Specialist
Lournedia Jean Louis
Community Engagement Coordinator
Rose Darline Louis
Event Planning Coordinator