TAMPA, Fla. — Right now, more Americans remain stranded in Haiti amid gang violence and political turmoil.
However, at least a number of them are out thanks to Project DYNAMO, the Tampa-based non-profit organization known for its work rescuing vulnerable Americans and allies around the world. Previous missions include Israel, Ukraine, Afghanistan, and even southwest Florida during Hurricane Ian.
Miriam Cinotti of Jacksonville was among those who were recently rescued.
"It was a little frustrating on our end getting out," Cinotti said during a press conference from the Dominican Republic alongside founder Bryan Stern.
Cinotti had to safely be moved by land, air, and sea from a remote spot in Haiti. She was there as a missionary.
"We were supposed to leave on March 8. Of course, that was right when everything happened. All of our flights were canceled," Cinotti said.
Stern said each mission is never easy and has its own set of unique challenges. In Haiti, Stern noted the austere environment in the middle of nowhere or the more popular areas, where gang violence is more prominent.
"Either way, it's very scary, very dangerous," he said.
Stern said there have been more than 180 requests from people asking for help.
Cinotti said she worries for Americans and allies still left behind. She said it's important for both federal and state governments to intervene.
"There's no excuse for people to be stranded here," Cinotti said. "I'm not bashing anyone. I just know what I pay for and I know what's available, and I just don't understand why it's not happening."
Stern said the organization plans to stay as long as its members can, however, it will depend on its financial resources. The organization relies on donations.
"Right now, we don't have anywhere near the capacity financially to rescue who is asking for help," Stern said.
Officials in the U.S. said roughly one thousand Americans have reached out to ask for more information about leaving Haiti.
The Florida Division of Emergency Management recently launched a portal to assist Floridians in Haiti, however information on how has not been shared yet.
“We will do everything possible to help Floridians and Americans who are in need of help in Haiti,” Director Kevin Guthrie said.
If you'd like to donate to Project DYNAMO's causes, visit this link.