If you’re looking to make a tangible difference in someone’s life, look no further than sponsoring a child in Africa. Here’s everything you need to know about partnering with an organization to help transform the lives of children and families in extreme poverty.
What is child sponsorship and how does it work?
Sponsoring a child is an amazing way to make a difference in the life of a child and their community. It’s a chance to offer hope through financial support that goes far beyond physical needs. Most sponsorship organizations operate through monthly donations for a specific child you want to support in their program. Sponsors can invest in the relationship with their sponsored child through letters and even through a visit to the child’s home. It’s an opportunity to empower and believe in someone that looks beyond their circumstances.
Who does child sponsorship impact?
Sponsoring a child does more than help the child you support. It helps their family and boosts their community as a whole. That’s the power behind these types of programs. By empowering and supporting a child, you can impact their entire community!
How much does it cost to sponsor a child in Africa?
Costs can vary slightly across organizations. For $38 each month through MOHI, or about $1.25 a day, you can make a direct and long-term impact on the life of child.
How is the money used?
The money is used to ensure your sponsored child receives an excellent Christian education, nutritious food, medical care, and has a chance to hear the Good News of Jesus Christ. At Missions of Hope, 88% of the funds go to providing medical care, spiritual development, paying school fees, and operating costs like paying the teachers and social workers, while only 12% is used for administrative fees.
Can I write to my sponsored child?
Yes! This is a great opportunity to build your relationship and share your life and family with them through your letters. These letters also serve to remind the child you sponsor that they’re valued and loved because you are taking time to send them a letter! Exchanging letters with your sponsored child is also a great opportunity to learn about their family life, hopes and dreams, and faith journey.
What should I write about?
When you write to your sponsored child, try to be aware of their culture, family background, and challenges. Avoid conversations about material possessions or experiences you’ve had that might be impossible for them. Remember that it’s about building a relationship and showing them that you support them!
Here are some ideas to include in your letters:
- Talk about the members of your family
- Tell them about your favorite activities, hobbies, and sports
- Briefly share about what you do at work, church, or school
- Share about the love of God
- Ask your child the similar questions about what they like to do, what they are learning, and where they live
These letters can have a huge impact on your sponsored child’s life.
Can I send my sponsored child a picture of my family?
Yes, you can send them a picture! It’s best if you take a picture in front of a neutral background and don’t include material possessions like cars or houses. But this is a great way to let your sponsored child feel like they know you and have a relationship with you and your family.
Can I visit the child I sponsor?
Yes! Most organizations allow you to take trips to visit the home country and work to arrange a visit with your sponsored child. This is an amazing way to grow your relationship, understand their culture, and show them how much you care. But make sure you plan your trip early! It’s always best to schedule as soon as possible to make arrangements around school schedules and other family obligations.
How often will I receive information about my child?
Most programs encourage sponsored children to write you at least once a year. Additionally, many organizations will notify sponsors if there are any major events or changes in the child’s life. But don’t let this stop you from communicating with them more than that! Your letters are a huge encouragement to your sponsored child.
How do I choose a child sponsorship organization?
There are many organizations to choose from when it comes to sponsoring a child in Africa or other parts of the world. How do you make the best choice? Here are a few questions you can ask:
- Is the organization fiscally responsible?
- How much does it cost and how is the money used?
- Does the money go toward individual children? Or toward community development?
- How long does a child stay in the program? What resources exist once they graduate from the program?
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Sponsoring a child is a great way to invest in their future, their family, and their community. Invest in this opportunity to build a relationship that encourages and uplifts them as they grow to become who God created them to be.
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