Salimata was born on August 5, 2017, in West Africa. When she was just three years old, her father became very ill and passed away. She has two older brothers and a younger sister.

This year (2025 - 2026), Salimata is in the 3rd grade.

After her father’s death, his family took her brothers to live with them. They also threatened to take Salimata and her sister away from their mother unless she agreed to marry her late husband’s brother. Out of fear of losing her daughters, their mother consented to the marriage. Shortly afterward she gave birth to another son, and then her new husband abandoned her and all the children.

Salimata’s mother has endured tremendous loss and hardship. She works tirelessly to care for her children by collecting and selling recycled plastic containers. Despite her efforts, her income is barely enough to provide for a family of four. Still, she recognizes the value of education and dreams of a brighter future for her children.

Sponsorship would be a great blessing to Salimata and her family. Sponsorship covers school tuition, school supplies, and a uniform. Twice a year Salimata and her family would also receive soap and a 100-pound sack of rice. These gifts would help ease the heavy burden carried by her courageous mother.