Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long will my sponsorship last?

We hope that you will be your child’s sponsor until he/she completes secondary school.

Sometimes a child’s family moves to an area out of the reach of where we are serving. You will be notified if your child moves or otherwise becomes ineligible for the program. If this happens, we will provide an opportunity for you to sponsor another child in need.

SPECIAL NEEDS CHILD SPONSORSHIP: If your sponsored child is unable to attend school, we hope that you will continue your sponsorship until the child reaches the age of 18.

How are my sponsorship contributions used?

We know that each gift given to World Hope International (WHI) is a sacrifice and we are committed to using that gift to transform the lives of children in need. Child sponsorship impacts children through the opportunity for quality education. We have learned, though, that it is not enough to send a child to school. To be honest, that’s the easy part. WHI addresses the holistic needs of children and communities.

Each country and community where we operate is faced with various needs and barriers for a child to receive an education. In some countries, a child may be too sick or hungry to learn. In other countries, a school system may be too dysfunctional and lack the quality teaching and supplies needed for a child to learn. Likewise, many communities may not understand the long-term value of sending their children to school and the barrier faced is a mentality that devalues education. WHI’s success is measured not only by whether the child is attending school, but also the impact the overall programming has on the specific region’s food security, decrease in sickness, change in mentality towards education, increased education level of teachers and availability of school supplies.

SPECIAL NEEDS CHILD SPONSORSHIP: Your sponsorship gift is uniquely used to provide a caseworker who will help facilitate a family plan to improve your sponsored child’s life. This plan often includes physical or occupational therapy and specialized equipment made by local carpenters and tailors. If your sponsored child is able to attend school, your sponsorship helps with the cost of school fees, supplies and a uniform.

How does WHI ensure financial accountability?

Financial accountability is of primary importance for WHI. We monitor each of our programs and take corrective actions when necessary to ensure funds are used appropriately.

Will I receive a bill each month?

If you do not subscribe to automatic credit card or direct debit payments, you will receive a friendly reminder about a month before your next contribution is due.  The reminder will include a remittance form attached and an addressed envelope to use in mailing your next contribution. For your convenience, consider setting up a recurring gift by credit card or direct debit.

How can I correspond with my sponsored child?

To ensure protection for both you and the sponsored child, all correspondence must flow through the Child Sponsorship office at the following address: 1330 Braddock Place, Suite 301, Alexandria, VA 22314. Please include your child’s name on the card or letter. If your child speaks a language other than English, your letter will be translated into the child’s primary language.  You may also send your correspondence via email to ChildSponsorship@worldhope.org .   For more information or to utilize our “Guide to Writing Your Sponsored Child” form, click here.

What should I write about?

Your sponsored child is interested in your family and would enjoy receiving a photo of you. He/she would like to know what your part of the country is like, what interests you have, or what work you do. Letting your child know you are praying for him/her is meaningful. Sharing a scripture verse that encourages spiritual growth is welcomed. Younger children also enjoy colorful greeting cards or postcards. Letters should be simple, age-appropriate and sensitive to your child’s lack of material possessions and the country’s political situation. Finally, encourage your child to stay in school and work hard.

How will my sponsored child communicate with me?

You will receive a letter and update twice a year. Younger children who cannot write may draw a picture. You will also receive an updated photo every year. 

SPECIAL NEEDS CHILD SPONSORSHIP: Each year you will receive an annual therapy update and photo.  If your sponsored child is able to write a letter or draw a picture, you will receive these treasures on occasion, as well.

Can I send extra funds for special gifts to my sponsored child?

Celebrating special days in your sponsored child’s life is a wonderful way to further encourage and extend love to children impacted by child sponsorship through WHI.

We encourage sponsors to consider a special financial gift for Christmas.  The suggested gift is between $10 and $25.  Funds received are used for Christmas celebrations for children impacted by child sponsorship.  We are not currently able to accept contributions for individual birthday gifts for sponsored children.  However, we do encourage you to celebrate your child’s birthday by sending a special card or letter!  Your words are powerful in their lives.

How do I give a Christmas gift?

Donate at any point in the year! Please note in the comment section “Christmas gift for sponsored child(ren).” 

May I send a package?

No. Unfortunately, high import fees and various restrictions by some governments prevent us from forwarding packages. You may consider including flat items in your letters or cards. Age appropriate bookmarks, scripture cards and stickers are very popular among sponsored children.

Can I visit my sponsored child in person?

Yes! Meeting your sponsored child will be an unforgettable experience for both parties! Every measure is taken to protect the children that we serve. There are special requirements that must be met before you can visit your sponsored child and it can only be done under WHI's permission and supervision. If you have an interest in meeting your sponsored child, we will work to connect you with a WHI Short-Term Missions Trip in that country. If you will be personally traveling to the country, apart from WHI, we require that you facilitate the meeting of your sponsored child through our program office.