Educate a Jamaican child experiencing poverty

Before enrolling at Christel House Jamaica, Yolanda S. struggled to keep up with school. “At my old school, I never really understood certain things,” says Yolanda. “I always lost track of things and never got to finish my work on time. I didn’t go outside much and didn’t eat lunch often.” Yolanda’s mother, Latoya, was concerned because the cost of transportation meant her daughter often missed school, contributing to her falling behind. “Yolanda’s report wasn’t good in early 2023 and I knew it was because of attendance,” she said. They learned about Christel House two years ago at an event at their old school. Latoya remembers what it was like when Yolanda was accepted at Christel House. “I cried and cried because it meant so much to me. It was such a relief.” 

With transportation provided by Christel House for each student, Latoya has seen a 100% improvement in Yolanda’s academics and personal growth. Yolanda is more confident, resilient, and has blossomed into a better person. Character Development is part of the curriculum at Christel House. Yolanda recently won the Best Deportment Award. “Deportment is about staying on task and having good manners, that’s what my mom told me,” Yolanda shares. When asked how she felt about her achievement, knowing it also reflects etiquette and how she carries herself, she smiled. “It made me feel happy and pleased with myself because I am working hard.” Yolanda also won character awards in three different months for Kindness, Patience and Motivation. The Grade 4 student says she’s grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the Christel House family. “The school is really kind. I can now reach my goals for the future,” she says. “It felt like home when I was new here when I was in Grade 3. It was my first day and I saw lots of children. I even got to know them, and they know a lot about me,” she says. She recalls seeing another girl sitting alone in the cafeteria. By going over to the girl and making friends, Yolanda showed what it means to be “i” in KiND, an expression featured on the school’s kindness wall. “She was very happy to have a friend. Now, she comes to me for help with work or to borrow a pencil or anything,” Yolanda adds. 

Yolanda’s favorite subject is Science, and she dreams of becoming a pediatric nurse. “My mommy told me about what a pediatric nurse does,” recalls Yolanda. She wants to help children like her. Outside of school, Yolanda enjoys singing, especially with her mother. Yolanda also likes drawing and being creative. As Christel House Jamaica expands, Yolanda already has a place secured in the new high school currently under construction on the campus. She is excited to continue her journey at Christel House and looks forward to achieving even more.