Monica

This is Monica. She is 14 and lives with her sister, Nellie, because both her parents are dead. She used to live with her Aunt, who abused the foster grant, by using it to improve her home rather than buy food and clothes for Monica. Nellie suspects that Monica was abused by her Uncle. She lives in a shack in Bandini Cheese Factory. There is not much space, but at least she is safe with her sister and her sister gives her a lot of love. She cancelled Monica's foster grant so that the Aunt couldn't get it, but now they have no income. When we first visited Monica, she was very suspicious and shy to the point of surliness. After two months, she really started to come out of her shell and looked so much happier. Now, when any of the AFFT volunteers arrive she runs up to the car for a hug. Her teachers report a remarkable improvement in her school work and in her attitude. She still needs a lot of help with her reading, but she is making such good progress.

Monca Before    Monica Now