Birthday: May 20, 2012

Sponsorship #: 2026-00-046S

Ernesto is a 14-year-old student who will be entering the fourth grade at Maranatha School this fall. Although he is older than many of his classmates, Ernesto has not fallen behind because of a lack of ability or desire to learn. His parents simply have never been able to afford tuition for all of their children at the same time. With seven sisters and three brothers, they have taken turns sending their children to school, believing that every child deserves the opportunity to at least learn to read and write. This year is finally Ernesto’s turn to return to the classroom. After testing during registration, he was placed in the fourth grade, where he is eager to continue his education if he is blessed with a sponsor.

Ernesto’s parents earn a living as vendors, selling household items such as brooms, wash tubs, flip-flops, and other necessities in the local market and by walking from village to village. Rising wholesale costs and Haiti’s struggling economy have made it increasingly difficult to sell their goods, leaving the family struggling to provide even the basics. Two of Ernesto’s siblings received sponsors last year, and his family is praying he will also find a sponsor so they can afford to send another sibling to school as well.

Even when he is unable to attend school, Ernesto loves to study. Like many children in Haiti, he borrows old textbooks from relatives and friends, teaching himself as much as he can while he waits for the chance to return to the classroom. His favorite subject is social science, where he enjoys learning about Haiti’s history, citizenship, and how to be a responsible member of his community. One day, Ernesto hopes to become an engineer so he can build strong homes that will serve families throughout his village.

 CLICK HERE TO SPONSOR ERNESTO!!