Writing letters to your sponsored child is more than just an exchange of words—it’s an opportunity to build a meaningful relationship, encourage their faith, and remind them they are deeply loved. Writing takes only 5-10 minutes, but your words will stay with your sponsored child all month.
But what should you say? How do you make each letter personal and engaging?
We asked some of our sponsors to share their best letter-writing tips, and their insights will help you make the most of this special connection!
Make It Personal
Your letters don’t have to be long or complicated, but they should feel personal.
- Sponsors like Ruth take the time to ask specific questions: How is your family? Who are your best friends? What books do you like to read?
- Caroline waits until she receives a letter from her sponsored child before responding, tailoring her message to what they share.
Tip: If you’re not sure where to start, respond to something they wrote in their last letter. Show them that you’re reading what they write every month!
Connect Over School & Learning
Many sponsors encourage their children in their education.
- Adam writes: “We always try to encourage them in school: Keep working hard. You’re so smart! What have you been learning? What’s really hard about school right now?”
- Sara likes to ask about Bible stories or lessons they’ve learned in sponsorship meetings. “The more they retell those stories, the more easily they’ll be able to recall them.”
Tip: Even though school may look different in their country, asking about their studies shows you care about their growth and future.
Share About Holidays & Traditions
Holidays are a great way to start a conversation! Many sponsors share how their families celebrate special days and ask about their sponsored child’s traditions. This exchange helps them feel more connected to you and gives them a window into your world.
- Adam asked his sponsored child, “How was your Christmas? What do you do when it starts getting cold?”
Tip: Reading about holidays and traditions in our monthly village reports not only gives you insight into your child’s experiences but also helps you know what to ask about!
Send Photos to Bring Your Words to Life
A picture truly is worth a thousand words. Many sponsors include recent photos of themselves, their families, or their everyday lives.
- Sara says: “I always send a couple of photos from the last month—me and my dog on a walk, celebrating a holiday, or playing in the snow—something they can connect with.”
- Whenever Adam sends photos, he makes sure to include ones of his kids and their activities.
Tip: Your sponsored child loves to see your life! Even simple snapshots help them feel closer to you.
Pray for Them & Let Them Know
Prayer is one of the most powerful ways to support your sponsored child.
- Ruth says she always asks how she can pray for them and values the prayer requests included in sponsorship reports.
- Caroline ends each letter with a reminder that she is praying: “I want them to know they are thought of and prayed for.”
- Sara also emphasizes how important it is to let sponsored children know what they mean to you: “When they feel sad or lonely, they can think about how many people care about them and are praying for them.”
Tip: You can even write out a short prayer in your letter. It’s a simple yet powerful way to encourage your child in their faith.
Include Scripture & Encouragement
Many sponsors love to share Bible verses.
- Caroline keeps a list of scriptures she’s already sent to avoid repetition.
- Marsha finds verses that relate to what her child is going through.
Tip: A verse doesn’t have to be long—sometimes, a simple reminder of God’s love is all they need.
Stay Consistent & Celebrate Special Days
Scheduling regular writing time ensures your letters reach your sponsored child on time and helps you stay engaged in their life. Also, make it a habit to send birthday greetings, acknowledge their achievements, and offer encouragement during challenges. These small gestures mean the world to them!
- Caroline schedules time on her calendar to write.
- Sara makes it a habit to reply as soon as she opens an email from her sponsored child.
Tip: Set a reminder to write by the 10th of each month so your child can receive your letter at their next sponsorship gathering.
Keep It Simple & Meaningful
One of the biggest takeaways from our sponsors is that letter writing doesn’t have to be time-consuming or overwhelming. Adam says he generally keeps his letters short—just 2-3 paragraphs, written in simple language so they’re easier to translate.
At the end of the day, what matters most is consistency and heart. Every letter is a chance to build a relationship, share Christ’s love, and remind your sponsored child that they are valued and seen.
Log in to your sponsorship portal.
Your letters make a difference. Keep writing, keep sharing, and keep showing the love of Christ through your words!
Not a sponsor yet? Learn more about how you can make a difference.
More like this: 6 Ways Letter Writing Benefits You and the Child You Sponsor
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