In the small community of Mazier, near the Ravine-à-Charles area and not far from Fouache, lives a little girl named Junia Duprevil. She is in sixth grade at the School of Hope.
Junia’s father passed away, leaving her mother to care for five children—Junia, two brothers, and two sisters. And yet, even in the middle of this hardship, one thing brings light to Junia’s life: the School of Hope.
The Battle to Learn
Before joining the School of Hope, Junia attended a school far away in Marfranc. Getting there each morning felt like an obstacle course no child should face:
- Walking through deep mud
- Climbing slippery rocks
- Crossing a rising river
- Arriving at school hungry
- Missing classes whenever it rained or the river became too dangerous
Junia remembers clearly how frightened her mother would be each time they crossed the river. Her mother feared slipping and dropping her daughter. She feared the water could take them both. Every school day was a battle.
A New Path at the School of Hope
After joining the School of Hope, everything changed. The school is close to her home, so she no longer has to cross dangerous waters. She feels safe and supported, receiving love, care, and guidance from the school’s staff and teachers.
And even on the days when there is no food at home, the school keeps her going. She receives Vita Mamba every day—a vitamin-enriched peanut butter snack. And every Thursday, she receives a nutritious hot meal.
The School of Hope has become more than a school—it is a place of safety, stability, and belonging.
Learning and Dreaming
In class, Junia enjoys learning in Creole. She says it is the language where she feels the most comfortable and confident. Among all her teachers, one stands out:
- He explains lessons clearly.
- He takes the time to guide students.
- He makes them feel valued.
For Junia, he is a role model—someone who brings joy to her learning experience.
The school also provides more than academics. Students learn about dignity, respect, hope, responsibility, and Jesus.
It is through these programs that Junia learned that:
“The future of Haiti depends on us, the children.” “We must respect our parents and respect everyone we meet.”
These lessons are shaping her into a strong, responsible future leader.
Despite her young age, Junia has a clear dream: She wants to become a nurse.
In her community, health challenges are everywhere. Many people suffer without access to proper care. Junia wants to be someone who helps—someone who brings healing, comfort, and hope.
A Message from Junia
A Message from Junia to All Who Support the School of Hope
“Thank you to everyone who supports the School of Hope. Your support is a blessing. Because of you, I know how to read, write, speak, and help my mother. Please continue helping the school so more children can have access to education.”
Junia is one of many children whose lives would have taken a very different path without the School of Hope.
Today, she is learning. She is dreaming. She is growing. She has hope. And it is because someone cared.
Happy Thanksgiving!
As we gather to celebrate this season of gratitude, we want to express our deepest thanks to you, our supporters. You are the reason children like Junia can learn, dream, and grow.
You make hope possible.
On Giving Tuesday, please continue to be the light for children in Mazier. Your generous gift will ensure that more students have access to a safe place to learn, nutritious meals, and the guidance they need to shape a strong future for Haiti.
Click here to donate and support the School of Hope this Giving Tuesday!
