“Sponsoring children in need is breaking the cycle of poverty.” Such is the message of children’s charity Compassion International. This Christian child advocacy ministry has helped more than 1.2 million children in 26 countries, making sure that each child’s needs – may it be spiritual, economic, social, or physical – is provided for.

Compassion International was founded by the Rev. Everett Swanson, as a response to the needs of orphans during 1952’s Korean War. Together with a few volunteers from the ministry, the Rev. Swanson gathered food and donated it to the young victims of war, and over time also provided them shelter, health care, education, and also Christian training. Ever since, the organization has been committed to turning children into responsible and fulfilled Christian adults.

Among their programs is Sponsor a Child, where individuals can choose a particular child, establish a relationship with them, and make tax-deductible contribution of $38 for their benefit. This small amount makes sure that the child has access to food and clean water, health care, educational opportunities, life-skills training, and ministry. According to the organization, a child does not only get all these when he or she is chosen as a beneficiary. Above all else, he or she is given hope.

Another one of Compassion International’s programs is Rescue Babies and Mothers, which addresses the lack of proper health care to women and their children in poverty-stricken nations. The organization has teamed up with local health or ministry centers that have programs for mothers of at-risk babies and toddlers. From their website, benefactors can choose a specific center and make a one-time of monthly donation.

These are just some of Compassion International’s projects for ending the cycle of poverty. With their dedication in giving these children a brighter future, the organization lives up to their mission of showing compassion to those who most need it.