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Maria is a young Brazilian girl who lives with her parents, Jose and Gislane, and with three brothers, in a rural community in the interior of the state of Ceara. Their simple home, which is self-owned, has brick walls, rough cement flooring and a clay-tiled roof. It has a tiny bathroom. Running water and electricity are available. Jose works as a day laborer in agriculture when available and his low income is far from enough to meet basic needs. Maria is affectionate and cheerful. She helps her mom by putting away items like toys and clothes. She loves playing house and with dolls in the company of other girls her age. Maria is considered to have good health, in spite of the poor living conditions and diet. She attends a local public preschool where she is making good progress. The family is needy and through your support Maria and her family have the opportunity to participate in important projects in the areas of health, recreation, education and nutrition.