Changed Life Story: Rosalina
In a community marked by poverty and struggle, Park School became a place of healing and hope for Rosalina*, a young girl once held back by illness but now thriving in the safety of Christ-centered care.
*name changed for anonymity, student not pictured 
Barrio right outside of Park School
Park School in Caraballo is nestled along the north coast of the Dominican Republic, just miles from bustling tourist destinations yet worlds away from their prosperity. In this community, marked by tension between Haitians and Dominicans, steady work is scarce, opportunities are limited, and many families live under the weight of poverty. When the local sugar cane industry closed, it left behind lasting challenges—joblessness, rising illiteracy, homes led by single mothers, and cycles of teenage pregnancy. In this difficult context, children often grow up without consistent provision for even their most basic needs.
Yet in the heart of this community, Park School stands as a refuge of hope. More than a place of learning, it offers children safety, belonging, and the life-changing hope of Christ.
Rosalina* comes from a long line of children who have passed through Park School. As the second youngest of nine siblings, she follows in the footsteps of all her brothers and sisters who have studied here at some point. Her single mother is still young herself, raising a large family while navigating the daily struggle to provide food, clothing, and stability.
From an early age, Rosalina has battled a delicate illness that causes painful marks on her body and scalp. The condition left her uncomfortable and often absent from school.
Concerned for her well-being, the Park School team stepped in with compassion and practical help. They arranged for her to receive medical treatment and made sure she had the supplies she needed to stay healthy—creams for her skin, a toothbrush kept at school, and regular check-ins from the school nurse and psychologist. Staff walked closely with her, making sure her dignity was preserved and her path back to the classroom was possible.
Through this consistent support, Rosalina’s health has improved significantly. The marks have faded, her strength has returned, and she now attends school regularly. She still faces ongoing challenges due to her condition, but she now has a place and community that daily care she needs to thrive.
The staff at Park describe Rosalina as warm, friendly, and kind. Vibrant and intelligent, she is a loyal friend to her classmates and enjoys sharing with others. In the classroom, she is committed and hardworking, quick to learn and eager to contribute. Teachers rejoice to see her engaged and confident—fully present in her education and relationships.
Her mother, too, has grown in her role. With encouragement from the school, she has taken greater responsibility for her children’s daily needs. Rosalina and her siblings now come to school with proper shoes and uniforms—small but significant changes that reflect new stability and hope for their family.
God’s hand is clearly at work in Rosalina’s life. Though she has not yet made a personal commitment to Christ, she listens attentively to Scripture and is open to the truth of God’s Word. Just as He has provided healing for her body, we trust that God is always working in her heart and that He will draw her to Himself for the deeper restoration of her heart.
At Park School, Rosalina has found refuge, consistent support, and the opportunity to flourish—surrounded by Christian staff who faithfully model and share the love of Christ each day.
With gratitude, the staff give thanks to God for the transformation already visible in her life, recognizing that every step of healing, growth, and joy is a gift from His hand.
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