Sponsors Needed!

The Summer 2010 issue of Word & Deed magazine printed an article introducing our readership to our newest sponsorship program in the Cesar Proano district of Quininde, Ecuador. Since then, we’ve been heartened to hear that the program is running well and that various goals are being met: the construction of a school building and an enclosure for the schoolyard is now complete, Dr. Yeny is giving medical attention to the children on a weekly basis as needs arise, nutritious meals are given three times a week, and Biblical instruction is being given to children three times a week, and twice a week to the parents or guardians. 

There have been challenges. Strong rainstorms in Quininde caused landslides so severe that many families were forced to leave the area. Some of these families had children enrolled in the sponsorship program, and about 40 children had to be replaced very early in the school year. Turnover in the program has been high, in general, due to the fact that many families are prone to move suddenly if they are given the opportunity to improve their situation. The administrators remark that, “it’s only by the grace of God that they have 90% rate of stability (other than the 40 children who left because of flooding)”. 

However, there have also been great triumphs. Five orphaned children in the project are a testament to the impact that the sponsorship program is having. In the beginning stages of the project, they would approach the teachers with empty bowls asking for food. After a few months of being in the sponsorship program and receiving nutritious meals on a regular basis, they no longer do this. They’ve gained weight, smile more, and are doing better in school. 

To summarize, Phase One of the sponsorship program in Quininde, Ecuador is well underway! Out of 100 children enrolled in the program there are 76 waiting for sponsors. Can you help us reach our goal of sponsoring these remaining children? We’re eager to launch the Phase Two of the sponsorship program, which will provide 100 more children in Quininde with benefits just like those being offered in Cesar Proano! 

Article by: Hanna Luong, Administrative Assistant for Word & Deed Canada.