Our One More Year Scholarship Program (OMY) partners with Shenzhen Charity Federation to support 500 qualified girls (and some boys) for “One More Year” in senior high school. If they successfully meet the scholarship requirements, we will continue to support them until they graduate.
Ai Lin* (17) is one of our beneficiaries. She comes from a rural Chinese family whose main source of income is farming. She has four sisters, and her parents are trying their best to support them all despite their household situation.
When we came to visit, we were welcomed by her mother, and she invited us to their home. She told us that their home was built thirty years ago with the help of their neighbors. Right now, its condition is poor, with many objects accumulated throughout the years.
When we asked Ai’s parents about their view on education, they said that they would always support their children in going to school. Due to their lack of education, they can only do laborious physical work. They believe that knowledge can change their destiny, so they hope their children can persevere in their studies for a better future.
Despite their struggles, Ai grew up to be a sensible and obedient child. Every time she returns home during vacations, she helps with farm work, such as digging potatoes and harvesting corn. When we talked to Ai herself, she struck us as the kind of girl who is strong-willed, decisive, and generous. They may be poor, but she does not feel inferior to others. Albeit her reality serves as fuel to study harder. She dreams of becoming a teacher in her hometown because she understands what girls like her need. Her ambitions do not stop at herself; rather, it is in her nature to think of others—and it shows in her hopes and dreams for her community.
*Name is changed for privacy.
Be a Part of the Solution
RMB 3,200 | USD 40 a month is all it takes to keep a girl in school for ONE MORE YEAR, giving her the chance to learn, grow, and succeed.
Sponsor a girl today and invest in her future.
