Changed Life Story: Samantha

Samantha* is in seventh grade student with a vibrant faith and hopeful future, but before her journey through Kids Alive, her life was anything but easy.

She was born in Palo Blanco, facing immense challenges — growing up in a family with limited resources and health challenges. Economic hardships made it difficult for her to access stable education, despite her deep desire to learn. More often than not, she had to set aside her schoolwork to help at home or find ways to contribute to her family's livelihood, which affected her academic performance.  

*name changed for anonymity, student not pictured

Life became even more difficult when her mother had an accident that left her unable to work and struggling to move around, even in their own home. As the eldest child, Samantha took on the responsibility of managing household tasks and caring for her two younger sisters, both of whom have health problems. Her family, being of Haitian descent, lived in fear of seeking medical attention, worried that they might face deportation. There were days when she had nothing to eat and lacked materials to complete her school assignments.

Desperate for help, she turned to her teachers and trusted staff at Fuente de Agua Viva (Palo Blanco School).

The school’s unwavering support provided her with everything she needed, including food, school supplies, transportation to and from school, and medical attention. When a cement block fell on Samantha’s leg, the school provided necessary treatment. And, the school provides medication for her sister with asthma.  

At first, Samantha struggled not only academically but also emotionally and behaviorally. She was always angry and aloof, burdened by the weight of her family’s struggles and lacking hope for the future.

But the loving environment at Fuente de Agua Viva changed everything.

The school didn’t just provide education—it introduced her to faith, hope, and the transformative power of God's love.

Through her involvement in OANSA (the Dominican Republic’s AWANA program), she came to know Christ personally. The biblical teachings, patient mentors, and the love of her school community helped her see herself and her future in a new light. Samantha learned that her worth was not determined by her circumstances, but by the love of Christ.  

With the support of Fuente de Agua Viva, Samantha slowly began to change. As she grew in faith, her attitude and outlook on life transformed. She was no longer withdrawn and filled with anger but instead became kind, engaged, and willing to talk about both her own needs and those of others. Over time, her confidence grew, and she began to embrace the opportunities given to her. She improved academically, developed new skills, and became an example to others, not because of her own strength alone, but because of the guidance and faith instilled in her through her school and community.  

Today, Samantha exhibits a growing faith in God, is emotionally and physically well, and is beginning to model a life of independence and service in her community. She has become a role model to her two younger sisters, who are currently also attending Fuente de Agua Viva. Through Samantha’s challenges, the school community has faithfully equipped and supported both her and her family for nearly a decade—all in the name of Christ.

We are excited to be a part of her transformation into the person God designed her to be, for the next decade and beyond.  

*pseudonym used for anonymity

You can make the difference in the life of a student like Samantha.