In her role as sponsorship coordinator, Sarah ensures that anyone interested in supporting underprivileged overseas children can do so through The Salvation Army. Whether by purchasing school supplies, providing food, or addressing medical needs, Sarah is the “go-to” for helping overseas children through the Central Territory.
Get Connected: How many children do we sponsor?
Sarah: We currently sponsor 154 individuals. This number has actually decreased since 2008, but it isn’t because people are giving less. Since a policy change in 2007, we’ve started to allocate funds to childcare facilities instead of the individual children. We’ve found that more children benefit this way.
We’ve also seen more children return to the care of their families, which is the ultimate goal.
Get Connected: Are you able to match a sponsor with a specific children’s home? For instance, if someone has an affinity for South Africa, could you ensure their sponsorship donation is sent there?
Sarah: Yes, if someone has a connection with a specific location we are happy to arrange it so they can support those on their heart. If this isn’t the case, we generally match donors with beneficiaries on a needs basis. We’re in constant contact with the territories determining which children’s homes have the greatest need.
Get Connected: Are there certain times of the year when sponsorships increase, and if so, when?
Sarah: The first quarter-January through March-is when we have the greatest influx of applications.
Get Connected: How about lulls?
Sarah: Summer is our dry spell.
Get Connected: Who is the typical sponsor?
Sarah: The majority of our sponsors work or worship with The Salvation Army, however, others join with us. For example, we recently had a couple from another church in Des Moines, Iowa, take an interest. They were so excited that they even asked for additional brochures to send to other churches.
Interestingly I’ve also seen a trend for former mission team members, both summer and global, to become new sponsors. The majority of the mission team sponsors are guys.
Get Connected: Tell me about your heart for sponsorship. How did this become a passion for you?
Sarah: My passion for sponsorship started by being on summer mission teams abroad. It made me aware of what it means to live with less and still be happy. In my current position I see first-hand how far a $25 monthly gift can go.
One scripture that resonates with me is 1 John 3:16-20. It talks about showing your love through your actions, which is something I strive for every day.
Get Connected: What encourages you the most about what you do?
Sarah: I love to read the reports that come back from the children’s homes on how our money is being used. They often send newsletters and photos, and it’s plain to see that the prayers and support of our territory are making a difference!
One children’s home in South Africa has developed a program for young adults leaving home for the first time. It’s called The Salvation Army Youth Training and Education Fund and its purpose is to better assist with transition into adulthood. It’s wonderful to see a children’s home develop such a successful approach to encouraging healthy adult living!
I’m also encouraged when I see young people become sponsors. I think it’s because I know the difficulties of being a young person, learning to budget and realizing the blessing and satisfaction that comes with giving.
Get Connected: What does the future hold for sponsorship?
Sarah: We’ve been growing through our “Love in Action” project. It’s a system of giving for those who can’t commit to monthly gifts; instead people can give a one time donation to cover a specific cost such as school uniforms, maternal care or a few meals.
For more info on Salvation Army Child Sponsorships, check out there website here.