Griset from Lari

The isolated life as a marginal farmer is the future for most Quechuan kids in rural Peru. With a long history of ethnic persecution and political conflict, solitary communities like the mountainous district of Lari, at 11,017 ft elevation, have been and will continue to be excluded from Peru’s economic growth.

Only 66% of 12-16 year old girls attend school in rural areas (Inter Press Study).

Born to two alpaca herders with four other children, a life of poverty is the reality for kids like Griset. Little did her parents know that the moment they enrolled Griset at Casa Chapi, she would be set on a different path, a brighter path.

Griset thrived at Casa Chapi. She enjoys volleyball, basketball, and gymnastics–activities she would not have had the opportunity to learn at home. Math is her favorite subject in school.

Thanks to years of support from our Quechua Benefit community, Griset has been provided the opportunity to break the cycle of poverty. A proper education provided to anyone willing to learn, with the ambition to do better and break the norm, is the most powerful tool.

Throughout the pandemic, Griset persevered to keep up with her studies. She was grateful for the food her family received and the cellphone to stay in touch with her teachers. Like the other students, Griset was excited to return to Casa Chapi in Arequipa to continue school with her friends.

“To all the parents who are wondering if Casa Chapi will be a good fit for their kids/family situation – it’s a great opportunity for your children, and it will change their lives for the better. Have them dream and build their own path.”

Fast forward to present day . . . 

Griset graduated from Paola Frassinetti High School in Arequipa, Peru in December 2021. She hopes to attend university in March 2022 to pursue a degree in systems engineering.