Mary Joy is hard working, persevering and industrious. She attends school without much to eat, and works hard in and out of school. She was #6 in academics, has demonstrated leadership skills as a classroom president and received a golden pen award.

Goals: She would like to finish high school, attend college and become a hotel manager.

Favorites: In school, she likes math and Filipino. She also enjoys scouting.

Family: Her family situation is complicated. She lives with her grandmother and an aunt.

Income: Her mother earns about $40 a month as a housekeeper.

Housing: Their home has bamboo walls. The roof is made of corrugated steel sheets. The floor is bamboo and concrete.