Tag Archives: help children in the united states

Rachel Luginbuhl |

Because of their compassion and commitment, children in our program receive the essentials they need, and the opportunities that help them truly thrive. Whether it’s staying in school, participating in activities, or simply feeling supported and seen, sponsors make the difference every single day.

Back to school in the u.S

Recently, we sent an appeal for Back to School help, and thanks to your generosity, we have raised over $25,000 for our Hope In Action Fund! Children around the world have the backpacks, school supplies, and clothes they need to begin the school year with confidence. Your support also helps provide nourishing snacks throughout the day, and often the weekends. We couldn’t do this important work without you. Your support ensures our children can return to school with the supplies they need to succeed. They can focus on their education, not on whether their shoes will last another week.

feeding program at visayans

Sponsored children at the Visayans Community Center are on term break, but they still come to the center for a mid-day meal, often staying to make use of the library: playing with toys, reading books, and putting together puzzles.
It is because of your generous donations – and a special donation from our sponsors Mr. and Mrs. Graff – that these students have access to the food, books, toys, games, and puzzles. Thank you for all you do to improve the lives of children!

HOLIDAY REMINDER

Although it may still be summer for most, holiday giving is fast approaching. To make your contribution for your child’s holiday gift head over and log in to your account, or call us at 1-800-538-5381. The deadline is October 15th, don’t delay.

Holiday impact from a coordinator

With the holiday season coming up, it’s an important reminder that so many children long to enjoy this season, but instead have to approach it with nervousness. Will they receive anything? What will they eat? What will it be like to return and hear about what everyone else got during the holiday season?

But for our sponsored children, these fears don’t have to occur. Giving a holiday gift means giving a child the chance at normalcy and inclusion. One of our coordinators at Johnson County Middle School gave a great example of that:

I saw the biggest impact of the sponsorship funds at Christmas.  Many students were so happy to receive gifts they otherwise would not have gotten.  One mother in particular cried when I told her how much money was sponsored for her children for Christmas.  She stated that her son had been asking for a bicycle.  He is in the 7th grade and has never had a bicycle.  While shopping, she picked out a bike with the sponsorship funds.  After Christmas break, the student came to me and told me all about his new bike and stated he would “have the best summer ever” now that he had a bike. 

If you are not already a sponsor, now is a great time to change the life of a child living in poverty.

Unsponsored Child Highlight

Meet Liz*, a tenth-grade student with a passion for culinary arts and a dream of becoming a chef.*

Liz is receiving vocational training in culinary arts and especially enjoys baking and cooking. She has even developed a talent for cake decorating. Her teacher describes her as quiet, happy, and humorous—a student who is finding her own path and building skills for the future.

Liz is currently waiting for a sponsor. Your support can help provide the everyday essentials she needs while encouraging her education and vocational training.

By sponsoring Liz, you can help her continue developing her talents and take another step toward the future she dreams of.

*Name is changed for online security

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How do I sponsor a child with Children Incorporated?

You can sponsor a child in one of three ways:

  • call our office at 1-800-538-5381 and speak with a real person in our sponsorship department
  • email us at sponsorship@children-inc.org
  • go online to our sponsorship portal and search for a child that is available for sponsorship.

SPONSOR A CHILD

Rachel Luginbuhl |

Because of their compassion and commitment, children in our program receive the essentials they need, and the opportunities that help them truly thrive. Whether it’s staying in school, participating in activities, or simply feeling supported and seen, sponsors make the difference every single day.

making a difference in bolivia

 

During a recent visit to Children Incorporated programs in Bolivia, our International Director saw firsthand how much sponsors are helping children and families during a difficult time. As the cost of food, transportation, clothing, and education continues to rise, many families are struggling to provide even basic necessities. Your support is helping change that.
Because of sponsors like you, children are receiving school supplies, uniforms, shoes, clothing, food, tutoring, and help with educational expenses. Support like this allows them to stay in school and continue working toward a brighter future. Read more about our International Director’s visit here

Thank you from a coordinator

Our volunteer coordinator at Morgan County High School shared some kind and important stories with us recently. All our coordinators have been expressing one very important fact: your care for the children you sponsor is making a huge impact!

Our students are so appreciative of their sponsors! The students look so forward to doing their back to school and holiday shopping because they know it helps their families.

I had a student whose sponsor sent in additional funding. She said that she just couldn’t believe how good her sponsor is to her!

One of my other students said that it makes him feel so important to know that someone cares about them and wants to help their family. This year, I was transferred to the high school and one of the seniors said they didn’t know how they would have gotten through without their sponsor. He said that it made him want to help out other people when he gets a job on his own because he knows how much that sponsorship means to him. It was so sweet to see the way that sponsorship has truly made a difference for him and how it fostered a love for helping others. 

Columbia update

Around 7:34am in Columbia, a 7.4 magnitude earthquake hit in the coastal midsection of the country.  This issue seriously affected the area where we have CI programs, the city of Manizales particularly suffered many casualties and destruction. Our CI program site Centro de Orientacion is located in that city.  Our international director immediately sought to make contact with our dedicated volunteer coordinators in the area. He has so far spoken to the coordinator in charge of one of the schools, and she has indicated that at this point, it is truly difficult to reach the children. Phones are not properly working and all is in emergency mode, as the damages and assisting the general population has taken priority.

As we work to establish communication with our affiliated sites in the affected areas, we are not without hope for those impacted. Once we have reports from our volunteers coordinators living in the areas, we will continue to update as we work tirelessly to ensure our students have resources available to them.

Our Hope in Action fund is our direct connection to immediate assistance when devastating events occur. No red tape, just support where it is needed the most.

Unsponsored Child Highlight

Meet James*, a kind and helpful third grader who enjoys learning, especially when it’s time for math. Whether he’s singing, playing football, or spending time with his mother and grandmother, James brings a caring spirit to those around him. He dreams of a world that’s “like Disney”: a place filled with happiness and wonder. At home, James does his part by helping with chores, and his teacher says he is always willing to lend a helping hand.

James is currently waiting for a sponsor. Sponsorship helps provide children with essentials like clothing, school supplies, and other support that helps them stay focused on school and continue building a bright future.

By sponsoring James, you’ll do more than provide practical support, you’ll remind him that someone believes in him and is cheering him on as he grows, learns, and pursues his dreams.

*Name is changed for online security

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How do I sponsor a child with Children Incorporated?

You can sponsor a child in one of three ways:

  • call our office at 1-800-538-5381 and speak with a real person in our sponsorship department
  • email us at sponsorship@children-inc.org
  • go online to our sponsorship portal and search for a child that is available for sponsorship.

SPONSOR A CHILD

Liz Collins |

Dear Friends,

The first day of school should be a day filled with excitement.

Most children lay out their new school clothes, organize their supplies, and wonder what their new teacher will be like. They dream about seeing friends again and moving up to the next grade. But, for children living in poverty, those feelings can be mixed with uncertainty. Will their backpack last another year? Will their shoes still fit? Will they have the supplies they need when classes begin?

Lacking these essentials, and not knowing the solution to provide them creates a ripple effect that lasts longer than most can imagine. No child should feel embarrassed, isolated, and unprepared. They should be free to focus on what their education is really about. Each school year marks another important step toward achieving their goals and building a brighter future.

Every school year is a step forward.

A step toward graduation.

A step toward new skills.

A step toward greater confidence.

A step toward opportunities that can change a child’s future.

And that’s why the Hope In Action Fund exists. By ensuring the essential items are available, you make sure children start the year with dignity and hope. But we can’t do it alone.

Last fall, one of our volunteer coordinators met a student who couldn’t stop smiling after receiving a new backpack and school supplies. As she packed her notebooks and pencils inside, she proudly told her coordinator she was “ready for school now.” It was a simple moment, but an important one.

Being ready for school isn’t just about having supplies. It’s about feeling confident. It’s about knowing you belong. It’s about walking into the classroom focused on learning and excited about what lies ahead. We believe every child deserves the chance to begin that journey feeling confident and prepared.

The Hope In Action Fund provides the essentials children need for a successful year, including school supplies, uniforms, shoes, backpacks, and other educational necessities. With your support, children will receive the resources they need to begin the school year with confidence and hope. Together, we can help ensure that students start the year prepared to learn, grow, and succeed.

As another school year begins, we invite you to help children take this important step forward. Together, we can ensure they have the tools, encouragement, and opportunities they need to thrive.

Today is a chance to make a difference

Through our Hope In Action Fund, children receive the resources they need to begin the school year with confidence and hope. Together, we can help ensure that students start the year prepared to learn, grow, and succeed.

Because a Fresh Start Shouldn’t Depend on What’s Missing

Sincerely,

Liz Collins, President of Children Incorporated

Want to PARTICIPATE in our Hope In Action fund?

Rachel Luginbuhl |

Because of their compassion and commitment, children in our program receive the essentials they need, and the opportunities that help them truly thrive. Whether it’s staying in school, participating in activities, or simply feeling supported and seen, sponsors make the difference every single day.

Thank you sponsors!

While our US students are out on summer break, they still want you to know how much they appreciate you! Through consistent sponsorship, Hope In Action, and letters between children and their sponsors, our students are anticipating the upcoming year with confidence, not fear.

Having what you need to start the next school year can be the change between success and failure. When you don’t have clothes that fit, or a backpack to carry your supplies, it can be the reason a child doesn’t attend school that day, or can’t focus on what they are learning. Sponsors change that. If you are wanting to make a real world impact in the life of someone else this year, sponsor a child today. Because a pair of shoes should never stand in the way of graduation.

 

combating food insecurity

Our Feeding Program is in full force! Because of your sponsorship children are receiving nutritious, vital meals that ensure they can stay focused on their education.

Food insecurity is a persistent problem, and one that we will continue to combat. Your sponsorship, combined with our Feeding Program works year round across the globe to ensure children enrolled have what they need.

 

more help this month

It has been a busy time for our Hope In Action Fund, here are some of the important work your donations have accomplished:

  • We recently provided the required attire for the children in the high school division of Shonto Preparatory School, so that they can participate in a statewide culinary competition in Tucson, Arizona. Shonto currently has a culinary program, allowing students to explore this as an opportunity for a future career.

  • Two brothers recently received a Hope in Action grant to attend a week-long summer camp together. There they will learn agricultural best practices, fishing, and leadership skills.

  • Students with autism and other needs received educational and enrichment tools to assist during the summer break, to keep them occupied and engaged over the summer.

  • Several school’s food pantries were restocked in Bath County, Kentucky. Although they had plenty of processed food, our volunteer coordinator wanted to make sure healthy options were available to children as well.

  • Our volunteer coordinators consistently report to us that food insecurity is a persistent problem. But thanks to our Feeding Program Fund, we are doing all we can to combat this very important issue. Recently, some of our schools enacted a Backpack Buddy for weekend food assistance. This will make sure students are sent home with nutritious food while home on the weekends.

  • Recently, we assisted a high school student with a new outfit and shoes for a job interview. Having the proper clothing gave him the confidence and professionalism to do his best!

 

 

Unsponsored Child Highlight

Meet James*, a kind and helpful third grader who enjoys learning, especially when it’s time for math. Whether he’s singing, playing football, or spending time with his mother and grandmother, James brings a caring spirit to those around him. He dreams of a world that’s “like Disney”: a place filled with happiness and wonder. At home, James does his part by helping with chores, and his teacher says he is always willing to lend a helping hand.

James is currently waiting for a sponsor. Sponsorship helps provide children with essentials like clothing, school supplies, and other support that helps them stay focused on school and continue building a bright future.

By sponsoring James, you’ll do more than provide practical support, you’ll remind him that someone believes in him and is cheering him on as he grows, learns, and pursues his dreams.

*Name is changed for online security

**********

How do I sponsor a child with Children Incorporated?

You can sponsor a child in one of three ways:

  • call our office at 1-800-538-5381 and speak with a real person in our sponsorship department
  • email us at sponsorship@children-inc.org
  • go online to our sponsorship portal and search for a child that is available for sponsorship.

SPONSOR A CHILD

Rachel Luginbuhl |

Because of their compassion and commitment, children in our program receive the essentials they need, and the opportunities that help them truly thrive. Whether it’s staying in school, participating in activities, or simply feeling supported and seen, sponsors make the difference every single day.

2026 Graduates

Behind each graduate is a sponsor who chose to invest in their journey, providing consistent support, encouragement, and the resources needed to stay in school and succeed. Thank you for helping them reach the finish line!

Sixth grade Graduation

Students from Mariano Lake celebrated their 6th grade graduations recently. This ceremony allowed parents and students to celebrate their accomplishments and prepare for the upcoming transition for high school.

 

Feeding Appeal Success

Because of your incredible generosity, our recent appeal for the Feeding Program exceeded our $20,000 goal. We are deeply grateful to each and every one of you. Your compassion and commitment to children in need make this work possible, bringing nourishment, hope, and opportunity to young lives around the world.

Your generosity is helping ensure that more children have access to nutritious meals, giving them the strength to focus in school, stay healthy, and look toward the future with hope. We are so grateful to have you as part of this mission, and we look forward to sharing the impact of your kindness in the months ahead.

End of Year Shopping

Summer shopping was a success for the students at Mariano Lake! ☀️🛒 Before heading into summer break, our coordinator took students on a special shopping trip to make sure they had everything they needed for the months ahead. From essential items to a few fun treats, these students were able to choose things that will help them feel prepared, confident, and excited for summer.

 

Unsponsored Child Highlight

Caleb* is a sixth-grade student who enjoys exploring technology and is especially talented at editing videos. He loves math, enjoys playing basketball, and dreams of one day becoming an engineer.

His teacher describes him as outgoing, and he enjoys spending time with his family, including his younger sister, Octavia. Whether he’s working on a creative project, cheering on his school’s basketball team, or learning something new, Caleb approaches life with enthusiasm and curiosity.

Caleb is currently waiting for a sponsor. Through sponsorship, children like Caleb receive support for essentials such as clothing, school supplies, and other needs that help them stay focused on learning and reaching their goals.

By becoming Caleb’s sponsor, you can help encourage his education, nurture his interests, and remind him that someone believes in his future.

 

 

 

 

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How do I sponsor a child with Children Incorporated?

You can sponsor a child in one of three ways:

  • call our office at 1-800-538-5381 and speak with a real person in our sponsorship department
  • email us at sponsorship@children-inc.org
  • go online to our sponsorship portal and search for a child that is available for sponsorship.

SPONSOR A CHILD

Rachel Luginbuhl |

Our Spring 2026 Newsletter is Here!

Your compassion is doing more than meeting needs: it’s changing what’s possible. From delivering life-sustaining meals to over 7,000 children, to empowering young leaders in New Orleans and expanding access to specialized education across the globe, your support is creating real, lasting impact. Whether it’s helping a child stay nourished, confident, or prepared to learn, every act of generosity is an investment in their future.

Working to Fight Food Insecurity

This past October, your compassion took a seat at the table for thousands of children. As global food insecurity continues to rise, our CEO, Liz Collins, mobilized an emergency boost of $25 per child across all our affiliated sites. The scale of your impact is staggering – over 7,000 children received the extra nourishment they needed to grow, learn, and thrive. You didn’t just send a donation, you sent a lifeline.

What You Helped Provide:

  • A week of school meals for one child.
  • One month of weekend food packages for a family in need.
  • Supplies purchased for the sustainability of community gardens.
  • Nutrition support for multiple unsponsored children in a high-need area.

Female Empowerment​ Opportunities ​in New Orleans

At Arthur Ashe Charter School, a remarkable group of young women is proving that with the right support, the future is bright. In “The Ladies of Tomorrow,” an 8th-grade sisterhood, students cultivate empathy and strengthen their emotional health.

Because of your contributions to the Hope In Action Fund, these young leaders had everything they needed—from project supplies to professional clothing—to make their mark this year.

Your generosity empowered them to:

  • Speak Up: They wrote, directed, and filmed two anti-bullying commercials for the weekly school news broadcast.
  • Give Back: The Ladies of Tomorrow mentored the next generation by hosting reading sessions for the first grade classes.
  • Celebrate Culture: They choreographed and led a powerful performance for the school-wide Black History Program.

Seeing Impact Through Letters

Writing to your sponsored child is a fun and informative way to learn more about their life as well as see the progress brought by your generosity. Some children write more than others, and patience is essential in allowing children to express themselves. We ensure at least one letter a year is delivered to our sponsors.

Educational Therapy in Puerto Rico

Success for a few of our children at Iglesia Bautista requires more than just a standard classroom setup. Through your gifts to the Hope In Action Fund, we recently provided targeted educational and therapeutic grants to ensure every student has the tools they need to grow.

These grants are changing the daily lives of families:

  • Consistency in Therapy: One student can now practice her therapeutic exercises at home with the same equipment used by her specialists.
  • Advancing Education: A young boy was able to trade his “little kid” map for an advanced version that shows every country, matching his growing curiosity and skill level.
Your generosity transforms a child’s potential into real opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive.

COORDINATOR SPOTLIGHT

Serving as the Family Resource Center Coordinator at Salyersville Grade School for the past three years, Kelly Simpkins has embraced her calling to support children and families in a rural community with limited resources. After being encouraged by the school’s principal to apply, she stepped into a role that allows her to make a meaningful difference each day.

She shares that Children Incorporated is an invaluable partner, providing essential support where few other resources exist and helping meet the needs of the most vulnerable students. Grateful for the ongoing encouragement from the Children Incorporated team, she remains focused on her hope that the children and families she serves will overcome generational poverty, achieve self-sufficiency, and grow into happy, healthy, and thriving members of their community.

Building Futures in El Salvador

Located near the Civic Center in San Salvador, El Salvador, stands the Laboure School, one of our affiliated sites. The school currently educates over two hundred of the capital city’s boys and girls from first through ninth grade. Due to damages from earthquakes over recent years, a large section of the school was condemned. The rest of the school, though safe, is in desperate need of improvements.

With the government’s increased focus on public safety and security, fewer funds have been available for health and education purposes. That meant we had an opportunity to help. We are thrilled to announce that with Children Incorporated supporters, like you, we secured funding for the remaining amount needed to build a new school.

Luis Bourdet, our Director for International Programs, has diligently worked with Laboure School administrators to obtain building designs and estimates, submit permits, and create project timelines. We are waiting on one more civic permit approval and hope to break ground early-to-mid-May 2026.

This is the largest building project that Children Incorporated has funded, and we are excited to partner with the Laboure School administrators and the San Salvador Civic Center community. We will keep you updated with the progress!

Maximize Your Impact with a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF)

Think of a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) as a simple and flexible way to support the mission of Children Incorporated. 

How do I contribute to Children Incorporated from my Donor Advised Fund?

  1. Login to your Donor Advised Fund account through your DAF sponsor, such as Fidelity Charitable, DAFGiving360, or Vanguard Charitable.
  2. Recommend a grant to Children Incorporated
  3. Provide Children Incorporated’s tax ID (54-0761510) to your DAF sponsor or advisor

Have questions about how to get started or how to link your existing DAF to our mission? We are here to help! Please reach out to Steve Mitchell, our Director of Donor Development, at 800-538-5381 or via email at smitchell@children-inc.org  to discuss how a DAF can be a powerful tool for your legacy of giving.

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