January 1st, 2023
Happy New Year, and a massive International Needs UK welcome to 2023!
While, of course, there is much uncertainty as we take our first tentative steps into the new year, we are excited about the prospects and what God has in store for us in his kindness and provision.
As we prepare to return to work, college or school in the next few days, please spare a thought and a prayer for those who are in ‘learning poverty’. That’s a term which describes the reality of children and young people who are unable to read and understand simple text. According to analysis by the World Bank, as many as 70% of 10-year-old children in low- and middle-income countries are in this position.
But it doesn’t have to be like that. For just £20 per month at today’s rates, you can directly support the education of one eager pupil through our Child Sponsorship scheme. It’s a really great way of making a tangible, practical difference in a young person’s life, and research shows that completing an education can break the cycle of financial poverty too.
You could also support Group Sponsorship, which – as the name suggests – helps a group or class of children access education, providing benefits to the whole community. The monthly gift goes towards school fees, supplies, a nutritious lunchtime meal and mental wellbeing support.
Above: Children from Burkina Faso receiving gifts through our child sponsorship programme.
We realise times are hard and finances are stretched, but we need to act urgently. Could you commit to sponsor a child (or, if you’re already giving in this way, add another child)? Perhaps you could join with others in your church, small group or social circle if its beyond your means alone. Or could you increase your regular giving to support a larger group of children keen to learn? Or maybe you might help us recruit sponsors by spreading the word, telling people about the important needs. One easy way to do that is to simply hit ‘share’ on this post and add your personal endorsement.
To help us get more kids Back to School, email Kim – our ever-helpful Donor Services Manager – at membership@ineeds.org.uk.
