Child Protection

For many sponsors, the journey begins with a photo, a letter, and a promise to support a child’s future. But sometimes, that journey leads to something truly unforgettable: a face-to-face meeting that brings the impact of sponsorship to life.

For Monica Gamble, who travelled from Virginia in the United States, that moment finally came after three years of sponsoring 9-year-old Jiscar in Chibombo District.

She arrived excited and a little nervous.

“I didn’t quite know what to expect,” Monica admits.

But the moment she stepped into Jiscar’s community, all uncertainty disappeared.

Jiscar spotted her from a distance and, without hesitation, ran straight toward her, wrapping her in a warm, joyful hug that said more than words ever could.

It was a moment neither of them will forget.

For Jiscar, sponsorship has meant being able to go to school.

Now in school and thriving, she proudly shared her progress with Monica, sitting side by side as they flipped through her school report cards. 

“I am very happy to meet my sponsor,” Jiscar says with a shy smile. “She helps me go to school and learn. I want to work hard so I can become someone important in the future. I want to be a teacher when I grow up.

Monica was deeply moved by Jiscar’s confidence, enthusiasm, and the love and encouragement surrounding her.

A Mother’s Gratitude

For Jiscar’s mother, the visit was both emotional and affirming.

“As a parent, you always want the best for your child, but sometimes you cannot do it alone,” she shares. “Through this sponsorship, my daughter has stayed in school and has hope for her future. Meeting Monica today means so much to us; she is part of our family now.”

She spoke about the challenges the family continues to face, but also about the visible changes in Jiscar’s life , from improved school performance to growing confidence.

For Monica, the visit brought everything full circle.

“I am so grateful to ChildFund and everyone who contributes to the work we are doing to make magical moments like this happen,” she says. “The highlight for me was looking over Jiscar’s school report cards with her family and taking selfies together.”

Seeing Jiscar’s environment, her family, and the realities they navigate each day deepened Monica’s understanding of the impact of her support.

“It was fulfilling to see how much love and support Jiscar has from her family,” she adds. “At the same time, understanding their financial challenges has strengthened my commitment to continue supporting her.”

Moments like these are a powerful reminder that sponsorship is not just about financial support; it is about connection.

Through ChildFund’s work, children like Jiscar are given the tools they need to learn, grow, and dream, while sponsors like Monica become part of their journey in meaningful and lasting ways.