Lisa from Waterford had long been a follower and supporter of John Hume. His reputation as a man of peace inspired civic-minded Lisa to follow his lead and sponsor a child through Plan International Ireland in 2007.
At first, it was simply a monthly donation. But soon a unique friendship began to develop with some forty letters having been passed between Lisa, Christopher and his family forming a bond across 11,000km that transcended the barriers of race, class and creed
By taking this step forward. She discovered she was not a helpless bystander to troubles of the world, her small contribution could help fund better maternal and child health services, it could help children get the best start in life by providing quality education in safe and well equipped schools. Her donations mattered.
Then, in early 2015, Lisa embarked on a trip of a lifetime and visited young Christopher to mark a milestone birthday for them both.
The act of giving had given her the opportunity and courage to push her boundaries and learn a few things about herself and others along the way.
Child sponsorship is an effective and ethical way for you to make an immediate and lasting improvement to the lives of the world’s poorest children.
When you sponsor a child, you can actually see the impact you are having and how you are helping the boy or girl you sponsor and the community around them.
When you sponsor a child, your contribution goes straight to the heart of that child’s community, not just to the child you sponsor. Your sponsorship ensures your sponsored child  has the best chance in life, and that the community around benefits in so many ways.
Sponsorship lets you follow your sponsored child’s progress every step of the way. You can be hands-on with the community and child you sponsor. You’ll write letters, exchange experiences, get regular updates and photographs and even have the opportunity to meet if you so choose.
