Nhá Chica, born Francisca de Paula de Jesus, was an Afro-Brazilian laywoman and hermit who lived in the 19th century. Born to an enslaved mother in São João del-Rei, she was freed in 1820 and subsequently dedicated her life to serving the impoverished. Living in Baependi, she focused on spiritual work and the construction of a Marian chapel. Recognized as the "Mother of the Poor," she is remembered for her extreme humility and her commitment to religious devotion and social service.