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Maria is a young Brazilian girl who lives with her parents, Cristiano and Cleuciana, in a small rural community located in the state of Ceara. Their simple home, which is self-owned, has brick walls, ceramic tile flooring and a clay-tiled roof. It has a tiny bathroom. Running water and electricity are available. Cristiano is unemployed at this time and takes some odd jobs as a fisherman when available; his very low income, however, is far from enough to meet even the most basic needs of his family. Maria is intelligent and cheerful. She helps her mom by making the beds. 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 public elementary school and loves Art. Her big dream is to become a doctor someday. 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.