A Standard Sponsorship is a commitment of just $30/month, and a Comprehensive Sponsorship is $60/month. A child can have one comprehensive sponsor or up to two standard sponsors. Each sponsorship level ensures that Yezelalem Minch can cover the monthly program costs for every child. (You can adjust your giving level at any time. Just contact […]
How do I make my donations?
Sponsorship donations can be made by automatic monthly bank draft (ACH), personal or bank checks, or by credit card. Checks should be made payable to Helps Ministries, PO Box 6449, Asheville, NC 28816. Include “YZM” and your child’s name and/or sponsorship ID in the memo area or an attached note. To set up monthly recurring […]
Can I write to my sponsored child?
Yes! Remember that your letter will need to be translated, so use simple language and keep your message fairly short. Attach one of the yellow cards from your sponsorship packet to assist staff in identifying your child. Standard, flat mail may be sent through the Helps Ministries office or directly to Ethiopia (check international postage […]
What should I write about?
Tell about yourself, family, faith, hobbies, sports, the area where you live. Ask your child about his/her favorite school subjects, interests, and dreams for the future. Include a photo of you and your family, or a postcard from you city or state. Tell your child you’re praying for them, and encourage them to do their […]
Will I hear back from my child?
Yes! Children usually write letters to their sponsors 2-3 times per year. If you haven’t received a letter for awhile, please contact us to make sure our records are current and that we have your correct mailing address. Please also keep in mind that some children, especially older children, may occasionally miss writing a letter […]
Can I send my child a gift?
Photos, stickers, and most other small items that fit into a flat envelope are great to include with a letter to your child. Don’t send cash, checks, jewelry, or electronics items. If you wish to send a package or other special gift, please contact us for ideas or guidelines! Due to high postage costs, we […]
How long do children stay in the program?
Most children graduate from YZM when they finish school, around age 19. However, students who attend college or vocational school may remain in the program longer – these older students can continue to be sponsored until they finish their degree or certificate! Sometimes a child may move out of the area or decide to stop […]
How does my support help my sponsored child?
Your sponsorship support through YZM helps provide basic physical needs such as food and nutrition, medical care, school fees and supplies, school uniforms and casual clothing, hygiene supplies and education, as well as psychosocial and spiritual support through extracurricular activities, mentoring, and much more!
Are my sponsorship donations tax-deductible?
Yes! Helps Ministries is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization, and your sponsorship contributions are tax-deductible in the United States. You will receive donation receipts and a year-end giving statement from Helps. Our federal tax ID is 56-1133231.
Help! I need to adjust my giving level, or end my sponsorship.
That’s ok! Your sponsorship is a voluntary gift, not a bill or obligation. We understand that challenges come up, and other important responsibilities take precedent. If you need to put a sponsorship on hold temporarily, change your giving amount, or end your sponsorship altogether, just let us know!