Where do donations go?
As always, the season of Lent offers us an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices that Jesus made for us all. One of the most beautiful lessons Lent teaches us about giving, and sacrifice is that it possesses a transformative quality.
This is why almsgiving, along with prayer and fasting, is central to this beautiful time in a Christian’s life. Giving donations to those in need as a form of sacrifice provides practical, spiritual, and transcendental benefits, such as feeling closer to our neighbors and God.
When you give to a child in need, you transform their lives by planting a seed of hope that will bloom in their future, even though you might not be there to see it. Choosing a children’s charity is a wonderful way to give back during Lent, but it may be challenging to decide which one to support. Asking yourself a few key questions can help you make that critical decision.
Who am I Giving to?
Each charity has a story that helped shape its mission and vision statements. These statements describe the purpose they wish to fulfill as an organization. They can help you answer fundamental questions, such as
- Does this charity align with my beliefs and values?
- What is the reach and impact of my contribution?
This information may also tell you about the charity’s cause. Of course, children’s charities strive to fulfill the needs and wants of children, but they tend to be specific about them or the group of children at the forefront of their mission. Make sure this information is readily available to you so that you can make a thoughtful decision!
How Does The Charity Create Change?
Not all charities operate in the same way, and this is usually apparent in the type of aid or assistance they give, which is vital to consider. Understanding how the charity enacts help can give you a much clearer picture of the support your donation will be providing.
For instance, some non-profits offer direct support in education and housing, while others might promote research to solve present and future problems affecting children.
This also touches on another key aspect – transparency. It is essential to know that your donation is truly reaching the person it needs to and being used honestly. A legitimate organization will ensure that any data related to donations are available to you.
How Our Little Roses Continues to Change Lives with Contributions
Our Little Roses is a non-governmental organization (NGO) working to improve the lives of Honduran girls in impoverished neighborhoods who are at extreme risk for situations such as abandonment and human trafficking. By providing a safe and loving Christian home and a good education, we empower girls to transform their lives and become joyful, productive, and educated women.
For over 30 years, our residential home for girls in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, has given these girls a safe refuge from harm and the skills they need to break the cycle of poverty and abuse from which they came. For most of them, it is their first contact with healthcare, spiritual formation, and education, and perhaps more importantly, it is where they find the love and respect they need and deserve.
The generosity of our donators has allowed Our Little Roses to give back in a very meaningful way. Over 80% of our expenditure supports our programs and services, the details of which you can find in our annual reports. Thanks to thoughtful donations, we have been able to provide:
- A safe and secure environment for girls in need of a loving home.
- Access to healthcare and essential nourishment.
- Education, including ESL programs, special education programs, high school, trade school, and university education.
- Transition Apartments for girls who complete their college or technical degrees to launch them safely into independent living.
- Cultural classes and programs including art, ballet, drama, wood carving, and other creative endeavors.
- Christian values that respect all and exclude none.
None of the above would have been possible without the contributions we have received over the decades and the many people who have chosen us as the children’s charity of their choice. To help Our Little Roses continue to be a beacon of hope for Honduran girls, take a look at our story and act now to invest in the future of our girls.