Why family sponsorship
Through family sponsorship, you can help change the future for a family currently living in poverty and have a lasting impact in Eastern Europe.Through family sponsorship, you can help change the future for a family currently living in poverty and have a lasting impact in Eastern Europe.
Family sponsorship brings together people like you – who want to see real and lasting change – and families living in forgotten, mostly rural communities in Eastern Europe. Those families are desperate for a better future for their children, and you can be the catalyst for change.
The challenges that families face are complex – and often overwhelming. Discrimination, in-work poverty, trauma, lack of education, and unhealthy living conditions are just some of the issues that arise.
None of these challenges have a quick solution. Families need tailored, long-term support to overcome the obstacles they face and break the cycle of poverty for good.
That is why Mission Without Borders offers more than just essential material support. Sponsored families receive regular visits from an assigned family workers who spends time with them, building trust and giving emotional and spiritual support.
Our work is carried out in partnership with the local church, and our staff live locally, speak the language, and know firsthand the community and the culture. They are well placed to support family members who are finding it hard to move forwards, whether it’s a struggle with bereavement or ongoing conflict or low self-confidence.
And that’s only the beginning. Our family workers are skilled in spotting the potential in the parents we work with, helping them develop skills or harness talents to build a more sustainable future for their families. In the meantime, children flourish thanks to summer camp, educational support and church activities, and find trusted mentors they can look up to.
Some families become Christians. Some parents set up successful businesses. Emotional wellbeing and living conditions improve. Where there was once stress and anger, now there’s laughter and peace.
While every family’s journey is different, it’s always a joy to be a part of their unique story.
Join us today in bringing transformation in Eastern Europe, one family at a time.
Frequently asked questions
Every month, the family receives groceries and hygiene items and a visit from the family worker assigned to them, who also provides emotional and spiritual support. Families also receive items through our donated goods programme. This varies according to what resources are available, but many families receive clothing, furniture, and school supplies for their children.
Church partnerships are crucial to the sponsorship programme – and families are invited to events at their local church, from children’s meetings and youth gatherings to women’s groups and holiday celebrations. Our hope is that families will become a part of their local church community and receive further support there.
Towards the end of their journey with us, many families will also receive a self-sufficiency project. These equip one or both parents with tools they need to run or set up a successful business. This could be agricultural tools, mechanic’s tools, or a sewing machine. We also offer vocational training where suitable. In some cases, our support leads to one or both parents finding a job.
Children also receive various forms of support which varies according to location. In some places there are after school clubs where children are helped with their homework. Children also receive the opportunity to go to summer camp and to fun activities at church. They benefit too from their relationship with the coordinator and with other Mission staff and volunteers.
Writing to your sponsored family is a wonderful way to build a meaningful connection and show them that, even from miles away, someone genuinely supports and cares for them. Letters from sponsors often become cherished keepsakes that families hold dear for many years.
Please email your letter in English, approximately 100 words, by April 1 and September 1.
While we’ve discontinued sending parcels due to postal challenges, there’s still an opportunity to provide a Christmas gift for your sponsored family. Sourced and packed locally by our teams in the field, this gift is a wonderfully impactful project that ensures families receive special, timely gifts during the Christmas season.
There is no fixed period for sponsorship, and you can cancel your support anytime. If you decide to end your sponsorship, please reach out to us, and we will ensure that the family is quickly matched with a new sponsor so they continue to receive support through our programs.
Yes, you’re welcome to visit your sponsored family! Meeting in person can be a wonderful experience, and we’d be glad to help coordinate details and recommend nearby accommodations (at your own expense). The families truly appreciate these visits, which create lasting memories and deepen the connection you share. Please contact us to discuss arrangements.
Families generally remain in our sponsorship programme for five years. However, in some cases, they may leave the program earlier when they relocate, become financially stable, or for other personal reasons. If this happens, we’ll inform you promptly to keep you updated and, if desired, arrange for a new sponsorship connection.
Have more questions?
If you'd like to learn more or prefer to speak with someone, contact Linda Joubert at +27 69 412 3137 today. She's happy to assist and answer any questions you may have.