The Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic located between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean occupies 2/3 of the island of Hispaniola, the east part of the island is Haiti. The Dominican people are among some of the most hospitable people that you will ever meet, despite the poverty that is a part of many of their every day lives. The generosity and warmth that the Dominican people share always makes one feel welcome and it is normal to greet and even chat with strangers. They are open to talking of spiritual things and, for the most part are open to hearing the Gospel.

The Dominicans live with the risk of food, waterborne diseases including malaria, dengue and typhoid fever. As of July 2009 35-40% of the population live in poverty and some areas the percentage is 70%. Wages have a wide range as the minimum wage varies depending on the field you work in; some earning as little as 4,500. Rd monthly (about $150.00).

In addition there are more than 155,000 children and adolescents working between the ages of 5-17 according to a local newspaper. Children working as shoe shiners, selling fruit ice pops, among many other jobs, earning only what they can. Although the literacy rate is said to be 85% many Dominicans do not go past the 6th grade level of education, therefore the reading level and comprehension is rudimentary at best.

• Population - 9,507,133 (July 2008)
• Capitol - Santo Domingo
• Religion - 95% Roman Catholic
• Language - Spanish
• Independence - February 27th 1844 (from Haiti)

Sources of Information

1. World Fact Book
2. Hoy newspaper
3. Listin Diario Newspaper