Melanie was born in 2007. She lives with her parents and 2 siblings in a courtyard with 15 family members. Her father works with his donkey cart to move bricks, wood and other things for people who do not have a way to transport things. This is not steady income, but helps with buying vegetables to cook with. Melanie’s mother stays at the home and cares for her other children and is busy pounding millet and preparing meals for the family. Melanie’s parents also grow millet and corn during the short rainy season. If it is a good season, they have enough grain for the year to feed the family. Now that Melanie is old enough for school, her parents were presented with a dilemma. Although they want a better future for Melanie, there is no money available to send her to school. Melanie was given a place at the Sheltering Wings School. She works very hard in class and has befriended the top students in her class. During recess, they sit together and study. When she isn’t in school she likes to go with her father when he is transporting things. Every night she studies math and reads. Melanie needs a sponsor to continue her education. Sponsorship will also help with food and medical care.