Carl: My Sponsored Friend

I've sponsored him through CFCA (Christian Foundation for Children and the Aging) since November 1996. He turned 12 last May 31st and is now in 6th grade. I chose to sponsor somebody from my own country because the Philippines, being a Third World nation, needs all the help it can get. Poverty is prevalent. The difference in social classes is unabashedly clear, as in black & white.

All it takes is $20 a month to support this child. It's not that much (maybe just one meal in Red Lobster) but it helps support him in various aspects like tuition fee, school supplies, minor medical & dental needs, and most important, his spiritual growth. He is helped to become a useful member of the society and encouraged to break the circle of poverty in which he's in.

We correspond a lot. At first, the tone of our letters was stilted, just like when two strangers meet. But recently, we've treated each other like old friends. CFCA doesn't divulge to the sponsored person the sponsor's address. The sponsored friend is also not allowed to request anything from his sponsor. All correspondence goes through the CFCA mission sites.

I've already convinced two friends to sponsor kids in the Philippines. In case you're interested, send me an E-mail and I'll be more than happy to answer your queries.

[ This picture was taken on his birthday at his aunt's house. Karaoke-singing is very popular in our country. A karaoke machine is almost a staple appliance like a TV. ]

I finally got to meet him in person last 3Dec98 when I visited the Philippines. He's SO SHY!