My name is Mahelet. I am 22 years old. When I was young, my parents had a great relationship and our family used to be happy. Unfortunately, both of my parents became sick. Despite many efforts to help my father, he passed away. He was our only source of income, and my mother struggled to provide for us. Our family went through a time of depression. My mother was exhausted and felt hopeless–until we learned about the sponsorship program. We joined when I was 9 years old.
After that, our lives totally changed. The support helped us survive and become more stable. My mom was encouraged to send me to school, and she no longer had to worry about school supplies and fees. We received grain, oil, and other foods during home visits, and hygiene products which helped increase my active participation in school. My mother joined a self-help group where she received training and the encouragement that she needed.
Every summer, we had vacation bible school and retreats. We could never even dream about attending such retreats before. We also celebrated holidays. My friends and I would think a lot about what kind of clothes or gifts we would receive for Christmas because we didn’t get any other gifts. I looked forward to the cookies, candies, games, and singing carols. Special gifts and letters from my sponsor always made me very happy.
We also learned about God’s love for us. I loved going to church and Sunday school. Three years ago, I decided to follow Jesus. I’m thankful for the time, energy, and money my teachers invested in me. The counseling that I received from staff and training in small groups changed my life. These conversations kept me from following peer pressure and making bad choices. I thank God that I live a peaceful life.
I am now a 4th grade English and Sunday school teacher. I love sharing my knowledge and my experiences with my students. I want to say one thing to all the sponsors. Your contribution may seem small, but it has a BIG impact for a child and families. You are supporting a community to be educated without hunger, and to became self-sustaining. Thank you to the program staff, Hope In View, and sponsors for all you have done. It has meant a lot to me and my family.
If you know someone who would enjoy changing a child’s life for $40/month as Mahelet’s was changed, please have them contact us at sponsorship@hopeinview.org or go to www.hopeinview.org/sponsorship