When a pastor’s failed vision is fulfilled

The grandeur of Mount Kenya, seen from the fringes of the small Kenyan town of Olmoran, is a far cry from the reality that the community faces. In Olmoran, poverty is rampant. Unrelenting unrest and violence endure in the community. Having been raised in Olmoran, Pastor Richard Mwangi understands the intricacies of life here very […]

Our staff on the powerful impacts of sponsorship here at home

For those of us who work at Compassion, what we do every day is more than a job! We like to say that we are “here [at Compassion] for a reason”. That reason is, of course, the two million children we serve around the world. But more specifically, on each of our desks or some […]

Do children have to be Christian to be in Compassion’s program?

As a Christian ministry, we get this question frequently. But the idea that we only serve Christian children couldn’t be farther from the truth! Our goal is to serve and empower local churches around the world to effectively minister to children and families living in poverty—regardless of their religious beliefs. What do we mean by […]

Escaping slavery on the most dangerous lake in Africa

The world was dark when Uncle’s stick came rattling at the door. Forced up from the depths of sleep, Ebenezer broke the surface of his dream and rolled to his feet before the man could whip him awake. He followed the line of boys out of the grimy compound and down to the water’s edge; […]

Spanish phrases I’d like my sponsor to know

Brianda and her siblings, Santiago and Andrea (pictured above), are all registered in the Compassion program at the local church in their hometown of Santa Clara de Juarez in Mexico. They love reading letters from their sponsors. We asked Brianda and a few of her friends: “What phrases in Spanish would you like your sponsors […]

The great ultimatum: Teen chooses between deadly gang life and Jesus

“I was not supposed to live,” says Samuel. “No one gets out of the gangs without paying a price.” _____ Samuel* grew up in a poor urban community in El Salvador with his mom and older sister. Everyone was friendly and seemed to know one another. But most parents had to leave early for work […]

Before and after: From sponsored child to National Director!

We say it a lot—God has so much planned for each unique person He has created, regardless of their background. An inspiring example of just that is Tony Beltran from the Dominican Republic. Anyone who meets Tony notices his intellect, his passion and his joy. Living in a poor community in the Dominican Republic, there […]

Poverty can’t stop Carmen from winning golds

“Mom! Look!” “What are you doing, Carmen? Doesn’t that hurt?” “No mom, it feels normal,” replied Carmen. The four-year-old was doing the splits. Eleven years later, Carmen has become the National Junior Rhythmic Gymnastics Champion of Peru. Behind this 15-year-old champion is a life of sacrifice and a shy girl who wants to improve her […]

You have the right to remain…a dreamer

It wasn’t long ago that Ouedraogo Abdoul Fataw spent his days at the local Compassion centre. Now, his days are spent keeping the streets of Burkina Faso safe. ___ Job opportunities in Burkina Faso are limited. The ever-increasing rate of youth unemployment doesn’t make it easy to find a well-paying job. For Ouedraogo Abdoul Fataw, a Compassion […]