Richard Zerna is age 8. He has 2 sisters and 3 brothers. He is in Second grade and his parents are Alicia and Paquito Zerna.

Richard is at present in good health, but he looks smaller compared to other children his age. Richard turned 8 years old last November 22 and he loves school. Richard got an average grade of 81.60%. He got good grades in Math, Filipino and English. His present teacher commented that Richard has the potential to perform well in class.

Richard�s family is economically in a dire situation. Paquito, the father, is a contractual carpenter. He has no permanent employment and his income is very low and irregular. It is hard for him to look for another job since he only finished the first year of the high school. Also, he had an accident 7 years ago, which fractured his right femoral bone. Alicia, the mother, cooks viand that she sells in the neighborhood. She also earns a minimal amount. But still, they are not able to provide all the daily basic needs for the whole family. One sister left home to try to find a job, and another sister is living with an uncle.

Richard would love to receive letters. You can write to him at the following address:

Kalauman Development Center
% Betty Murillo, Director
Silliman University Campus
6200 Dumaguete City

Philippines