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Maria Laura is a young Brazilian girl who lives with her mother, Maria Sheila, and younger sister and brother, Lorena and Lorenzo, in a rural community located in the Jequitinhonha Valley, northeastern Minas Gerais, which is a poor and arid region. 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. The father has abandoned the home and has not been providing any type of financial support for his children. Maria Sheila is a local schoolteacher and earns low wages. Maria Laura is a studious, calm and obedient girl. Her pet name is Laurinha. Maria Laura helps her mom by making the beds and washing the dishes. Her favorite pastimes include playing tag and hide-and-seek. She has a dog she is fond of. Maria Laura attends a public school and her favorite subject is Math. Her big dream is to become a psychologist someday. The family is needy and through your support Maria Laura and her family have the opportunity to participate in important projects in the areas of health, recreation and education.