What it means to sponsor a child through Ecologia
How does sponsoring child with Ecologia work?
We describe sponsors as ‘Godparents’ because the children say that it makes them feel like family. It encourages a child’s sense of wellbeing and shows them someone cares. Because sponsorship is a form of regular giving, it means we can reliably look after the children, and develop our capacity to care for more children. You can sponsor more than one child and some children have more than one sponsor. We try to ensure that each child in each of our projects has at least one Godparent.
How much does it cost?
Our Godparents make a monthly or annual contribution towards the child’s special needs. We recommend a Standing Order of £20 per month, although you may contribute as much as you wish. What is important is the relationship you develop that goes beyond purely financial support.
What will I receive once I sign up?
Once you’ve selected the child you wish to sponsor and signed up with a Standing Order, you will receive a welcome pack including a picture of your ‘Godchild’ with some information about the child’s interests, hobbies etc. Twice a year we will send you an update, with a card, a letter or a drawing from your Godchild.
How is my financial contribution used?
Ecologia retains a small administration fee for handling sponsorship donations that helps to cover the cost of running the programme. All remaining contributions from Godparents go to the Children’s Fund in each organisation so that no one child has more than another and all the children benefit. The fund can be used for school supplies, clothes, health care, presents for Christmas and birthdays, education and recreation. Pledging to sponsor a child goes a long way to securing their long-term future.
How can I support my Godchild’s higher education?
We do not hold education funds for individual children.We have an Education Fund for each organisation that is available to support all the children after they turn 18. Some Godparents arrange with us to set aside a certain portion of their monthly contribution in this fund. We encourage you to contribute to the Education Fund on the understanding that your Godchild will have the same opportunity for higher education as any other child in their community.
Can I send a card or a gift to my Godchild?
We encourage you to communicate with your Godchild two or three times a year either by letter or email especially at birthdays. They so love receiving letters from you and are encouraged and inspired by your interest in them. We discourage sending gifts because this can set up competition that we wish to avoid. Please bear in mind that these children come from difficult, and sometimes very poor, backgrounds. Please write your letters in clear simple English. Feel free to enclose photos, postcards and greetings cards. We suggest you refer to yourself as a “friend” or “Godparent” which feels warmer than a “sponsor”.
What to write?
The child you are sponsoring would like to know about your life – your family, pets, hobbies, favourite sports or other activities as well as your occupation and where you live. Write about your everyday life, so they can get to know you and gain insight into your culture, making this an educational experience for both of you. You can also ask them simple questions that they can easily respond to – but avoid asking about their personal background. Encouragement is one of the most important things you can give.
Can I visit my sponsored child?
Yes! Visits to your sponsored child are very much welcomed. We can assist you with your visa and travel preparations. Please contact Ecologia at least 3 months before your trip for advice. We do not facilitate visits of children to their sponsors until they are over 18, when they can make up their own minds.
Protecting the children
We follow the standards as set out in the Child Sponsorship Charter for charities. The way in which we manage our work ensures that we keep a personal approach, whilst upholding the best interests of each child at the heart of what we do. Names of children have been changed to protect their identity. All communication with the children is monitored by their guardians in line with our child protection policies.
Sponsor a child and become a Godparent today.
