Q. How much does it cost to sponsor a child?
A. Sponsorship is $34 per month. Since the child you sponsor is a residential student in our school, that amount covers his/her total living expenses, including food, lodging, medical care, education, recreation, and clothing.

Q. How much of that $34 actually makes it to the field to help my child?
A. All of it. We withhold nothing for administrative expenses.

Q. How will my sponsorship benefit a child?
A. The child that you sponsor will receive benefits and have opportunities that he/she most likely would never have without your intervention. Your sponsored child will receive an education which is out of reach for people who live in impoverished conditions. In fact, your sponsorship provides uniforms, school supplies, books and even gym clothes. Additionally the health needs of your child will be met. He/She will have access to medical care and will be taught about personal hygiene. Health improves and the children grow stronger too as they have nourishing balanced meals each day. Your child will develop socially through interaction with others from various walks of life, and his/her confidence level will rise with the realization and understanding of God's love. That ties in with the most important benefit your sponsored child will receive, which is a consistent testimony of the Gospel. Most of the children in our schools do not come from Christian homes, but many come to Christ through the ministry of the teachers and school staff. These children then take the Good News back to their families.

Q. Can I write to my sponsored child?
A. Yes! You may write to your child as often as you wish. He/She is just as curious about your life as you are about his/hers. There are a few things to keep in mind as you write: a) keep letters short; b) do not include your mailing address; c) avoid using slang terms that would be difficult to translate; d) focus on family, work, sports and church activities rather than describing material possessions you may have; e) do not promise to send gifts or ask a child what he/she would like as a gift; and f) make sure the topics you include are appropriate and do not reference habits that are not consistent with a biblical lifestyle.

Many people find it easier to write by email than to sit down and hand-write a card or letter. If you are one of those people, you may find our online letter form to be a convenience. Just click here to go to the form. When you submit the letter, it will come to Hope and Help and be forwarded on to the field office, printed out, translated if necessary, and taken to your child.

Q. Will my child write to me?
A. Yes, your child will write to you but do not expect every letter you send to be answered immediately. Younger children may simply draw a picture for you and as the child grows and learns, his/her letters will become more detailed and personal. The letters you receive from your sponsored child are a great way for you to measure his/her progress and development.

Q. Can I send a gift to my child?
A. The best gifts are personal ones such as a photo of your family or postcards showing the area in which you live. You can also send small coloring or activity books or any flat item that will fit in a standard envelope. If you choose to send an extra financial gift on special occasions, we suggest a small amount ($5-$10) because larger amounts can create jealousy among the other children who are not receiving a gift. Please do not include cash for the child as he/she will have no way to exchange that money; you can add your special gift to the regular sponsorship amount you give to Hope and Help by check or credit card donation.

Q. Am I the only sponsor my child has?
A. Your child has just one sponsor: You! That is why your prayers, letters and consistent support are vital to the development of your child.

Q. How long does sponsorship last?
A. Typically, a child will continue to be sponsored until he/she graduates from high school, usually around age 18-20. Occasionally a family may move, making it impossible for sponsorship to continue. In that case, you will be notified immediately and given the opportunity to sponsor another deserving child. If you need to discontinue sponsorship, please do not simply stop sending your support. It is best for the child if you notify us so that we can find another sponsor. In the meantime, your child will remain in the care of Hope and Help.