Chalice Child Sponsorship Programs are Empowering Communities

MaryAnne McKinnon, Senior International Manager with Chalice, has seen the difference it makes in a community when a child sponsorship program effects change. An innovative funding model implemented by Chalice is proving beneficial to the children and families participating in our Catholic child sponsorship programs. Previously our global partners purchased needed items, paid school fees, and provided programs to ensure education and nutrition. This model has worked no question, as proven by the thousands of children provided with a better quality of life.

Somewhere along the evolution of our child sponsorship programs; however, we asked ourselves if this was best way to provide benefits. After much research and discussion, it was clear families know what’s best for their children and are capable of making spending decisions.

Three years ago, we started experimenting with a new funding model called Direct Family Funding (DFF). With this model, a bank account is opened in the name of a sponsored child’s legal guardian. Every parent becomes a member of a small community group that meets regularly with a leader, secretary, and treasurer.

Members decide how they will allocate sponsorship funds and then report back after the funds have been spent. As always, school-aged children must attend school. Chalice staff provides continued training, support, and guidance.

As part of my responsibilities with Chalice, I’ve visited our communities and sat in on groups. It’s interesting to observe dynamics, how decisions are made, and how parents are empowered. In Kenya, all of our communities have converted to the DFF model. The Kenyan DFF model has a micro saving component. Every group member has their own savings – some have smaller amounts and use it for household expenses, while others take out significant loans to use as capital for their micro-enterprises.

All of our communities in India have also transitioned to DFF. I was touched at one meeting when the group members rallied around a mother whose husband had just passed away by taking up a community collection for her. In India, more than 10,400 bank accounts have been opened in 14 communities with 570 groups meeting on a monthly basis.

Just imagine the empowerment, self-determination, and community building that can happen with further rolling out this model. We will see life changing impacts at the level of families and communities, especially through your ongoing relationship with your sponsored child. When you sponsor a child, you are making a difference not only for them, but their families and communities as well.

— MaryAnne McKinnon, Senior International Manager