Joyce lives in the Kuarikiakine Village with her mother, grandmother, 10 siblings and her cousins.  The live on a small homestead of 3 huts.  Her father died in 2020 from an accident.  The family typically eats one meal a day but sometimes go without eating at all.  They do not have mosquito nets and are frequently sick without access to proper medical care.  They tend a small garden of sorghum, sunflowers, beans and corn to help feed their family and bring in some income.  Unfortunately, the mother cannot provide for all the family members on her own.  Joyce has often snuck into classes at the school to listen but is often caught and asked to leave.  Her family cannot cover the fees necessary for her to attend.  She loves to read books and help her mother cook.  She dreams of becoming a nurse, just like her aunt.

*Stories do not necessarily reflect the assistance of ECM. ECM covers general educational costs, basic needs and medical needs for all children enrolled. *