Why Firme?
Firm - not shaking or trembling; steady
Haitian Creole is a language based and evolved primarily from French, Spanish, African languages and increasingly, English. “Firm” is the English spelling, but in many other languages an “e” is added, making it “firme.” Firme is pronounced [furm], identical to the English pronunciation. The reason behind spelling “firme” with the “e” is to represent the cultural diversity of Firme Foundation’s vision. The “e” also represents energy and environment; Firme Foundation has a “go green” mindset, with the desire to leave a small carbon footprint. Houses will use recycled materials from the local area to remove trash from neighborhoods and provide jobs for Haitians. This will also significantly lower shipping and construction costs and will be more time efficient. Through these actions, Firme Foundation hopes to not only provide “firme” shelter for the earthquake survivors, but to also stimulate the economy.