One Family's Strength

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Quentin Joe and his sister, Philanthia Yazzie. (Photo: Courtesy of Save the Children)

Quentin Joe, a fifth grader at Chinle Elementary School in Arizona, resides on a Navajo reservation where more than half of the population lives in poverty.

Recently, Quentin Joe risked his own life for his family. A fire broke out in his house when his mother was not at home. When Quentin Joe escaped the house, he realized his baby sister was still inside. Without hesitation, Quentin Joe ran back into the house to rescue her.

Although his sister is safe and his brother is recovering from his burns, Quentin Joe’s family has nowhere to live but a one-room dwelling with a dirt floor and no running water or electricity. The family depends on community members for their meals. Quentin Joe and his brother must care for the family’s sheep, chop wood for heat, and haul water to the house.

Quentin Joe’s mother is unemployed, and his father left the family long ago. With seven siblings and little adult support, Quentin Joe is depended upon to care for his younger brother and sister.

Quentin Joe has faced hardship all his life, but he continues to work hard in school and help support his family despite his young age.

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