We often tell stories of perseverance in Haiti and Mislene Orelien’s journey is one such story. Like too many young women in Haiti, Mislene found herself pregnant at age 17.
Teenage pregnancy is very high in Haiti – a common struggle in low-income countries. According to statistics, 10% of adolescent girls aged 15-19 have had at least one child, and 1% of Haitian women have already given birth to a child before age 15.
Teenage pregnancy can have many negative consequences for young girls including school dropout, increased rates of poverty, social isolation, and family conflicts.
For Mislene, dropping out of school and struggling with poverty came with teenage pregnancy. She had always enjoyed school and was determined to earn her diploma but was forced to put her dreams on hold when her baby girl named Aley was born.
Mislene persevered through these struggles and never gave up, working to feed and provide for her daughter. Mislene sacrificed and prioritized Aley’s education over her own, paying school tuition out of the little she earned.
Two years ago, Mislene decided it was now or never if she wanted to finish high school but knew she couldn’t accomplish it on her own. An amazing sponsor chose Mislene for sponsorship at age 23 and she entered school as a sophomore.
Thanks to the generosity of her special sponsor, Mislene will be starting her senior year in October!
Mislene is grateful to be entering her final year of school and proud of what she has accomplished. Aley is eight years old and continuing in primary school, watching her mom as a role model.
The two enjoy eating spaghetti together at breakfast, playing hopscotch after school, and working on their homework together at night. It’s not an easy life, but they thank God for their blessings.
Do you want to go above and beyond for this young family? Aley is waiting for a sponsor and you can help! $38 per month will provide Aley with an education, school lunches, and access to medical care. Truly a blessing!