If you caught my last blog, you would have seen that this year, a very generous supporter has made an incredible pledge: if we can boost the number of children sponsored through Kids Club Kampala by 10%, they will personally sponsor 10 additional children. To achieve this in 2024, we’re aiming to find sponsors for 17 more children, and we need your help. We’re just 3 sponsors away, so today I wanted to write about one of the ways of sponsoring a child; joining forces and sponsoring a child as a group. By sponsoring a child together, you can have a profound impact on the lives of children in Kampala.
A Life-Changing Decision: Peterston Women's Institute
Peterston Women's Institute (WI) became involved with Kids Club Kampala after attending a presentation at one of their meetings. Moved by the images of the slums and the incredible work being done, several members felt compelled to act. They decided to join forces, with 19 members contributing just £3 per month—less than the cost of a cup of coffee—they are able to sponsor two children, Kabir* and Nia*. I reached out to a member of Peterston WI to ask her about the group’s experience of sponsoring a child. Have a read about what they said below.
"We all pay £3 per month to support both Kabir and Nia. We also have a collection box at our meetings, and any money collected goes towards a food parcel for the families".
This collective effort not only provides essential support for the children but also fosters a sense of community and purpose among the group members. For those who find individual sponsorship out of their budget, this group approach makes financial contribution more manageable and accessible.
The members of the Peterston WI have found great joy in receiving updates about the children they sponsor.
"We love the photos and reports and are pleased to be making a difference".
Fostering Empathy and Global Awareness: Catalyst Vineyard Church
Catalyst Vineyard Church has also embraced child sponsorship, involving their children's ministry, Catalyst Vineyard Kids, in the process. Through their sponsorship of Khaled*, the children have developed greater empathy and compassion, learning how their actions can impact others around the world.
"Sponsoring Khaled has helped our kids grow more empathy and compassion for other children in contexts different from their own" .
I was so thrilled to learn that Catalyst Vineyard’s experience of sponsoring a child has broadened the children’s understanding of mission and giving, and that it has become a valuable tool for educating children around the world about global citizenship. It’s a wonderful example of the multi-faceted benefits of sponsoring a child.
It was amazing to hear that the church views child sponsorship as a way to put their values into practice.
"As a church, we are passionate about being and speaking Good News to the world, and part of that comes in the form of supporting our mission partners".
This aligns with their belief that children can be active participants in mission work, giving them a chance to live out their faith in meaningful ways.
Collective Impact: How Group Sponsorship Makes a Difference
When individuals come together to sponsor a child as a group, the impact goes beyond just providing essential resources like education, healthcare, and nutrition. Group sponsorship also strengthens the bonds within the group itself, fostering a sense of shared purpose and collective achievement. Whether it's a church congregation, a community organisation, or a group of friends, the act of working together toward a common goal can deepen relationships and create a powerful sense of unity.
Sponsoring a child together is particularly beneficial for those who may find individual sponsorship financially challenging - which I can totally understand! By pooling resources, you can share the financial responsibility with your group, making it easier for everyone to contribute without feeling the strain - like what Peterston WI do.
If you’re still not sure, here is a quote from a youth worker at Catalyst Vineyard Church who offers a compelling call to action:
"Have you ever wanted to change the world? Or make the world a better place? When you sponsor a child, you are changing the world... maybe not the whole thing all at once, but you are changing that child's world, changing their hope, changing their future, and you are most definitely making their world a better place."
If you or your group is interested in learning more about how you can sponsor a child through Kids Club Kampala, please don't hesitate to reach out to me via email at luke@kidsclubkampala.org, I will be happy to answer any questions you may have and will be with you every step of the way through your sponsorship journey.
*Name changed
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