When gangs took control of Source Matelas in April 2023, Chaniaica’s family lost everything but their lives. At the time, she was in the middle of her 9th grade year at a school in Cabaret, preparing to take her government exams to qualify for secondary school.
Despite everyone’s lives being in total upheaval, the national exam date remained fixed. Chaniaica failed.
Totally out of work, Chaniaica’s mom could not afford the tuition to send her back to the same school to retake 9th grade last fall. But God provided an opportunity at Grace Emmanuel School, where Chaniaica enrolled for the first time.
She completed 9th grade this summer—and passed her exams.
We asked Chaniaica 10 questions to get to know her more.
1. Tell us about your family.
I live in Cabaret with my mom. My mom and I are Christians. We worship at the Church of God in Guiton.
2. Where did you go to school before Grace Emmanuel School? What did it cost?
I attended a school in Cabaret. The school year cost 12,500 gourdes (about $95US).
3. What surprised you most about Grace Emmanuel School?
We don’t pay. We eat. They give us a free education. We receive a gift every Christmas.
4. What do you remember about your first day at Grace Emmanuel School?
It was a good day, just seeing the ambience among all the students. Ms. Ruth especially made me feel welcome.
5. Why is education important to you?
So I can become a well-educated citizen to serve my country. I want to work and take care of my family. I want to be a model in society.
6. Who has had the greatest impact on who you are and what you believe?
My mom because she’s someone who has a lot of faith in God. She’s taken me to church since I was little.
7. Have you had any moments that changed your life?
Yes, when we had to leave Source Matelas to go to live in another area after the attack. I had lived in Source Matelas since I was born.
8. What is your favorite subject?
Science. I want to become a computer scientist.
9. What does a free education mean for you and your family?
Many things. Because of the difficult situation right now, I wouldn’t be able to go to school if we had to pay.
10. Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
I passed the exams! Last year I cried a lot when I didn’t pass.
Grace Emmanuel School, which provides a free Christian education to nearly 400 students, is funded entirely by sponsors and other partners. Will you be part of making it possible for GES to continue standing in the gap for kids like Chaniaca? You can sign up to sponsor her here, or give to Grace Emmanuel School from our giving page.