Because I am a Girl

The cycle of poverty keeps many girls and young women from realizing their true potential. But this cycle is difficult to break when adolescent girls become pregnant before they finish their education, which happens often in communities where we work.

That’s why Plan’s programs around the world include adolescent sexual and reproductive health education, and provide support to those who do become pregnant, enabling them to raise healthy babies and have the opportunities they need to break the cycle of poverty. These initiatives contribute to a delay in the timing of first pregnancy, and girls who do become young moms have more resources to help them continue their education and raise healthy children of their own.

Jenny lives in a community in Ghana, where Plan's maternal health project has helped to change her life.When Jenny became pregnant, she was uncertain what her future would bring. This project, made possible with your support and the support of the Government of Canada through Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development, helped Jenny to find hope and pointed her on the path to success.

It was through this Plan project that Jenny met Maggie, a leader of the local Mother Support Group funded by Plan. Maggie took Jenny under her wing, going with her to the health centre for her first prenatal check-up, encouraging her to stay in school, and talking to her parents and teachers about how to help.

Since then, Jenny has received incredible support.

“My teachers and I are ready to lend her any help she needs to complete school and move on to the next level of education,” says the head teacher at Jenny’s school.

Jennys father, too, has offered her support by going with her to her remaining prenatal check-ups, while her mother ensured she was eating nutritious food and getting the rest she needed.

Jenny went into labour earlier than expected, but with the assistance of midwives and a doctor at the local health centre, she had a safe delivery and gave birth to a beautiful and healthy baby boy.

Jenny is now back in school, thanks to Plan and her parents, who are actively supporting her and caring for the baby when she’s in class. Most importantly, the baby is thriving and receiving all the love and care he needs from his family, with support from his community.

“I am motivated to complete school to ensure a bright future for my child,” says Jenny. “I know my situation would have been different without Plan.”

Girls like Jenny have unlimited potential to improve their lives and pass that on to their children. Thanks to you, they’re getting the chance they deserve to make that happen.