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Rafael is a young Brazilian boy who lives with his parents, Giovany and Elenice, and with two sisters, one brother, and one cousin, in a rural community located in the Jequitinhonha Valley, northeastern Minas Gerais, which is a poor and drought-stricken region. Their simple home, which is self-owned, has brick walls, ceramic tile flooring and a clay-tiled roof. It has a tiny bathroom. Water is carried from an artesian well. Electricity is available. Giovany works as a day laborer in agriculture and the family receives a small family allowance from the federal government. Rafael is cheerful, playful and affectionate. His favorite pastimes include playing marbles and flying a kite. He has a dog he is fond of. Rafael is considered to have good health, in spite of the poor living conditions and diet. He attends a local public elementary school and his favorite subject is math. His wish is to be a police officer when he grows up. The family is needy and through your support Rafael and his family have the opportunity to participate in important projects in the areas of health, recreation and education.