Personal History: According to the records at the orphanage, Benita’s father was kidnapped and killed by Maoists during the insurgency in Nepal. Her mother was then destitute and very ill. She asked the government to shelter Benita, her brother and little sister, and they were placed at the Balmandir Orphanage. Her youngest sister Deepa is still at the orphanage, but her brother Arjun is also sponsored by HCC. For the Dashain holiday every year, Benita and her siblings travel to where their mother now lives, in a small village in Eastern Nepal.

What makes me special?: Benita is in the 3rd grade and is a bright, hardworking student. She is a happy, active child who loves to sing and play basketball. Her life ambition is to be a singer. Benita has a hunger for learning and wants to help others. She expresses much love and gratitude to her sponsors.