Questions & Answers

About Sponsoring a Child

 

Is child sponsorship an effective way to help?

By sponsoring a child, you help bring long-term changes to their community, creating a happier and healthier environment in which to grow up.

 

Are the funds given to World Vision handled responsibly?

Yes. World Vision accounts for every Rand. Of the funds given to World Vision in 2011, 78% went directly into programs that help children, 1% went to fundraising services, 21% was allocated to administration. Audits are conducted regularly by external firms to verify the accuracy of World Vision's financial reporting. 

 

How are children chosen for sponsorship?

Community members help identify the most vulnerable children in the area. Then, the families of these children are asked if they'd like to be part of the child sponsorship program, with the understanding that the benefits will be shared by everyone in the community.

 

How long will I sponsor my child?

World Vision works in a community until it becomes self-sufficient, usually a span of 10 to 15 years. You can sponsor the same child for as long as the project continues. When a project is completed, you will be given the opportunity to sponsor another child.

 

As a child sponsor, what will I receive from World Vision?

When you become a child sponsor, you will receive a Welcome Package from World Vision as well as a letter of introduction from your sponsored child or World Vision staff working in your sponsored child's community. Each year you will also receive a report detailing the progress of your sponsored child and the community project. This report also includes an updated photo of your sponsored child.

 

Should I write to my sponsored child?

World Vision strongly encourages you to write to your sponsored child. Children love to hear from their sponsors and often treasure the letters and photos that are sent. Please note that while your letters may reach your sponsored child within a few weeks, the response time can be quite long.

When writing to your sponsored child, use the World Vision national office address located in the picture folder for your sponsored child. All correspondence must include:

* World Vision’s national office address (exactly as it appears) on the front of the envelope.
* Your sponsored child’s name and child ID on the back flap of your envelope and on the top of your letter.
* Please do not write your address inside the letter.

 

Can I send gifts to my sponsored child?

You are welcome to send letters and gifts to your child, however, due to the ever increasing prices of courier, It is more safer and convenient that you send money for your sponsored child to buy what they need.  This way, we do not have to worry about packages that get lost through the post  or lost items.  Please contact us for banking details.  

 

Can I visit my sponsored child?

A visit to your sponsored child and their community is a rewarding way to see the benefits of your contributions. You must contact World Vision at least three months before your intended departure date and before you make any travel arrangements. To begin coordinating your visit, please contact a World Vision representative at 0861 101 888.

 

Can I adopt a sponsored child?

No. World Vision does not organize adoption. Your assistance to improve their quality of life and self-reliance in their own communities has deeper value than moving them away.

 

What if I cannot make my child sponsorship payments?

Should you be unable to make regular child sponsorship payments, please contact World Vision as soon as possible to explore the range of options available.

 

How do I update my contact or payment information?

If you need to report a change of address or banking information, you can call a World Vision representative at  0861 101 8888 or  send an email to [email protected].

 

Still have a question?

Please call a World Vision representative at 0861 101 888 or  send an email to [email protected].

 

World Vision is a Christian relief, development, and advocacy organization dedicated to working with children, families, and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. As followers of Jesus, we are motivated by God's love to serve all people regardless of race, religion, gender or ethnicity.