5 common questions about child sponsorship

Let’s take a stroll down memory lane …

Remember in school when you didn’t understand something? What did you do?

Hopefully, you raised your hand and asked a question.

Likewise, you may have some questions about sponsoring a child in another country. Or maybe you’ve been a child sponsor for a while now, but you still need clarification on a few things.

Well, this blog post is here to help! And you don’t even have to raise your hand.

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about child sponsorship:

Can I write to my sponsored child?

Absolutely! In fact, communication with your sponsored child is highly encouraged. Just as you enjoy receiving a phone call or text from a family member or friend, your sponsored child will love hearing from you.

Not only is letter writing a great way to build a strong relationship, but it’s also a chance for you to minister to your sponsored child. Many children in the sponsorship program come from poor families or war-torn countries. By including a Bible verse, prayer, or few words of encouragement, you remind your sponsored child of God’s love.

If you need ideas on what to include in your letter, you can find appropriate Bible verses here and some other prompts here.

When you’ve finished your letter, slide it into an envelope and mail it to the address below. We’ll make sure your sponsored child receives your note as quickly as possible!

[Sponsored Child’s name and ID #]
c/o World Help Child Sponsorship Program
P.O. Box 501
Forest, VA 24551

Why doesn’t my sponsored child write back?

First, please know that the letters you write your sponsored child are some of their most prized possessions. Many of them hang the cards and crafts they receive from their sponsors around their rooms so they can be on full display.

However, sponsored children are not always able to respond quickly. Some are still too young to write, and others may not have strong enough language skills just yet. In remote areas, mail delivery and pickup can be delayed as well.

Teachers and program staff always encourage the children to write back, so you’ll likely receive at least one letter each year along with your annual update and a new photo of your sponsored child.

If your child hasn’t responded yet, don’t be discouraged! Just keep writing and know that every note you send is putting a smile on his or her face.

Can I send gifts to my sponsored child?

Yes! Just like letters, your sponsored child will be thrilled to receive a small gift from you. Keep in mind that all items you mail must fit in a 6×9-inch envelope and can take up to eight weeks for delivery. So, if your gift is for a special occasion like Christmas or a birthday, just make sure you send it extra early!

Click here for a few flat, inexpensive gift ideas that will fit perfectly inside your envelope.

As a reminder, you can also send an extra financial gift. Your sponsored child can’t receive cash, but any additional donation made through your Donor Portal will be used to impact both your child and other children in their program.

For example, the extra funds you send at Christmas will allow your sponsored child to receive a special present or enjoy a Christmas celebration with other children in the sponsorship program!

Can I visit my sponsored child?

Now that many countries have lifted their pandemic travel restrictions, visiting your sponsored child might be a possibility! Keep an eye on the trips page for a list of upcoming opportunities.

If you have specific dates in mind for when you’d like to visit your sponsored child, feel free to contact us and speak with a World Help representative.

Each trip will be handled on a case-by-case basis.

Why did my sponsored child leave the program?

This question often comes with a bit of concern, but you shouldn’t be worried. There are several reasons why children leave the sponsorship program.

They may have graduated. This is a good thing! Grade school is behind them, and because of your sponsorship, they now have the education and tools to pursue a fulfilling career that will allow them to escape poverty.

Their families may have become financially independent. Instead of relying on sponsorship, these children’s families now have the means to provide for their basic needs themselves. This is also a good thing! In these cases, your sponsorship made a huge difference in helping them achieve financial independence.

They may have moved. Sometimes sponsored children and their families relocate to areas away from our partners where sponsorship is unavailable. If this happens, be sure to keep praying for that child as God continues to direct his or her future.

If your sponsored child leaves the program for another reason, you will receive a letter explaining why. And of course, you are always welcome to contact us with any questions that you have.

Hopefully, this list clears some things up about child sponsorship. If your question wasn’t answered here, though, be sure to check out the full Frequently Asked Questions page.

Thank you for choosing to be a sponsor. Your generosity is making an incredible impact on your sponsored child’s life. Not only are you helping provide for their physical needs today … but you are also giving them hope for a much brighter tomorrow.

Not a sponsor yet? Click the button below to learn more about boys and girls still waiting for sponsorship.

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