Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update

As the impact of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) develops around the world, we’re continuing to do everything we can to keep Compassion-supported children, Compassion staff, volunteers and church partners safe. We’re working hard to minimise disruption to critical operations and ensure the children we serve remain known, loved and protected.

As our CEO, Justin Dowds, shares in this latest update, we’re deeply grateful for your ongoing support during these challenging times. As we navigate this pandemic, equipping local churches to care for children in poverty has never been more relevant or significant, so thank you.

Compassion around the world

Many of the countries where we work are striving to slow the spread of the coronavirus through restrictions on public gatherings or quarantines. Below, you can find the most up-to-date reports from those countries, and how the new guidelines are affecting Compassion’s programmes. Please continue to check this page for further updates.

Updated: 23 November 2021

• Burkina Faso

  Many projects have now resumed normal activities, while some continue to meet in small groups or conduct home visits.

  It has been challenging to gain an accurate understanding of the spread of COVID-19 in Burkina Faso as testing has been extremely limited. Despite the uncertainty of case numbers, the impact of the pandemic has been evident in the nation’s increased widespread lack of food, shelter and medical care. Women and children have been especially vulnerable to exploitation, violence and malnutrition.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Heavy rains and continued unrest in parts of the country compounded the challenges of the pandemic. As a result, thousands of families became displaced or without income. Local church partners in Burkina Faso have worked hard to continue providing support to children during this time. Many projects have now resumed normal activities, while some continue to meet in small groups or conduct home visits. Since the pandemic began, local partners have distributed more than 633,500 food packs and 651,400 hygiene kits to families and continue to raise awareness of COVID-19 preventive measures. They also have helped more than 128,800 persons obtain medical care.

  Are children receiving letters?

  The majority of letters are delayed in Burkina Faso, which means it may take longer for you to receive letters from your child. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t write. We encourage you to continue sending your sponsored child letters of encouragement and hope. What a joyful day it will be when those letters are delivered.

  Are gifts being delivered?

  Gifts continue to be distributed in Burkina Faso, although they are currently delayed. In some communities, staff members have needed to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognising that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Ethiopia

  The majority of Compassion projects are open for small group activities and classes, and some have fully resumed normal activities.

  Ethiopia is currently experiencing instability due to continued armed conflict in the Tigray region of the country. Combined with the pandemic, as well as flooding and locust invasions in 2020, these crises have caused extreme food shortages and loss of wages for many families. The humanitarian crisis in this country has worsened.

   

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Compassion projects are operating at different levels depending on the region and local guidelines. The majority are allowing children to return in small groups for activities and classes, and some have even fully resumed normal activities. In some regions, projects remain closed for safety. Staff members continue to make home visits and phone calls to families. They are diligently checking on children and looking for signs of abuse, and providing trauma counselling as needed. Partner church staff members have distributed more than 1.2 million food packs and more than 786,200 hygiene kits and have provided medical support to more than 80,200 individuals.

  Are children receiving letters?

  Letters are currently being delivered in Ethiopia, although delivery to and from your child may take a bit longer than normal. We encourage you to continue writing your child, as all children need words of hope and encouragement now more than ever before. Thank you for your ministry.

  Are gifts being delivered?

  Gifts continue to be distributed in Ethiopia. Staff members have been given the option to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver, if necessary. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognising that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Ghana

  Our local church partners in Ghana are starting to resume normal activities for registered children and their families.

  The COVID-19 pandemic has hit the Ghana's health infrastructure hard and many hospitals do not have the capacity to adequately serve their communities. The government has commenced a vaccination programme and many restrictions have now been lifted.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Our local church partners in Ghana are starting to resume normal activities for registered children and their families. Many continue to meet with children in small groups or at their homes to slow the spread of the virus and keep staff, families and children safe. Since the pandemic began, staff members have provided more than 253,000 food packs and more than 242,100 hygiene kits and medical support to almost 110,700 individuals.

  Are children receiving letters?

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  Letters are currently being delivered in Ghana, although delivery to and from your child may take a bit longer than normal. We encourage you to continue writing your child, as all children need words of hope and encouragement now more than ever before.

  Are gifts being delivered?

  Gifts continue to be distributed in Ghana. Staff members have been given the option to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver, if necessary. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognising that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Kenya

  Many projects have now safely resumed their normal activities.

  The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated food insecurity for those living in poverty in Kenya. The government has enforced varying restrictions and curfews throughout the pandemic in an effort to contain the spread of the virus. The country's COVID-19 vaccine programme is underway, though the process has been slowed by difficulty in gaining access to adequate doses.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Local church partners are working hard to continue serving Kenyan children in poverty during this health crisis. Throughout the pandemic, they have used a mix of in-person and virtual activities to support children and their families. Many projects have now safely resumed their normal activities, though letters and gifts continue to be delayed in some areas. Since the pandemic began, staff members have distributed more than 302,800 food packs and nearly 90,800 hygiene kits and have provided medical support to almost 99,800 individuals.

  Are children receiving letters?

  The majority of letters are delayed in Kenya, which means it may take longer for you to receive letters from your child. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t write! We encourage you to continue sending your sponsored child letters of encouragement and hope. What a joyful day it will be when those letters are delivered.

  Are gifts being delivered?

  Gifts continue to be distributed in Kenya, although they are currently delayed. In some communities, staff members have needed to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognising that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Rwanda

  Many projects have now safely resumed their normal activities.

  Projects are open

  Rwanda's COVID-19 case numbers have kept relatively low overall. The nation's COVID-19 vaccination programme began in March 2021 and the government has worked hard to provide easy access to testing and thorough contact tracing. However, lockdown restrictions have adversely affected many vulnerable children and families, due to loss of caregiver income and school closures.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Our local church partners in Rwanda have closely followed local guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in their communities. Due to continued low case numbers, most Rwandan projects have now resumed their normal activities. Staff have delivered more than 108,000 food packs and 961,000 hygiene kits to children and families since the pandemic began. Additionally, they have helped more than 66,500 individuals obtain medical support.

  Are children receiving letters?

  Letters are currently being delivered in Rwanda, although delivery to and from your child may take a bit longer than normal. We encourage you to continue writing your child, as all children need words of hope and encouragement now more than ever before.

  Are gifts being delivered?

  Gifts continue to be distributed in Rwanda. Staff members have been given the option to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver, if necessary. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognising that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Tanzania

  Many projects are running their normal activities.

  Projects are open

  Tanzania was initially hesitant to acknowledge the dangers of COVID-19 or take steps to prevent its spread. This began to change in March 2021, when a new President, Samia Suluhu Hassan, was sworn in. Because of limited testing and access to public data, it is difficult to know the full extent of the spread of the virus in Tanzania. The nation's vaccination programme commenced in mid-2021 and the government is now encouraging the population to follow appropriate health measures to stop the virus from spreading.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Our local church partners in Tanzania have been mainly operating as normal throughout the pandemic. Increased hygiene and sanitation measures have been implemented at each project. Staff are also working with children and their families to educate them on COVID-19 prevention. Since the beginning of the pandemic, they have distributed nearly 73,800 food packs and 107,800 hygiene kits to families and provide medical support to more than 44,200 individuals.

  Are children receiving letters?

  Letters are currently being delivered in Tanzania, although delivery to and from your child may take a bit longer than normal. We encourage you to continue writing your child, as all children need words of hope and encouragement now more than ever before.

  Are gifts being delivered?

  Gifts continue to be distributed in Tanzania. Staff members have been given the option to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver, if necessary. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognising that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Togo

  Most projects have now resumed their usual activities.

  As local COVID-19 cases rose throughout 2021, Togo's government issued several extensions to its nation-wide State of Health Emergency. The country's vaccination programme commenced quickly, with priority given to frontline health workers. The lockdown restrictions resulted in increased unemployment and subsequent loss of income for many vulnerable families.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  For our local church partners in Togo, most projects have now resumed their usual activities. Some remain meeting in smaller groups or are conducting home visits to registered children. Since the pandemic began, staff members have been able to safely deliver more than 693,800 food packs and more than 453,000 hygiene kits to families, in addition to providing medical support to almost 104,900 individuals.

  Are children receiving letters?

  The majority of letters are delayed in Togo, which means it may take longer for you to receive letters from your child. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t write! We encourage you to continue sending your sponsored child letters of encouragement and hope. What a joyful day it will be when those letters are delivered.

  Are gifts being delivered?

  Gifts continue to be distributed in Togo. Staff members have been given the option to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver, if necessary. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognising that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Uganda

  Most Compassion projects continue to meet in smaller groups or virtually.

  Uganda's strict curfews and restrictions have begun to ease as confirmed COVID-19 cases stabilise. The country's vaccination programme is well underway. Difficulty accessing testing has meant that the true figure of positive cases could be much higher than reported. Ugandan hospitals have been overwhelmed by patients requiring critical care, and many in the population have slipped back into poverty as a result of the pandemic.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Local church partners in Uganda have operated at a variety of capacities during this time, based on the government guidelines in their area. Most projects continue to meet in smaller groups or virtually for the time being to prevent the spread of the virus. Staff also conduct home visits to assess the wellbeing of children and their families. Since the start of the pandemic, staff members have distributed more than 172,200 food packs and more than 660,500 hygiene kits to Compassion-assisted families, and they have provided medical support to more than 161,200 individuals.

  Are children receiving letters?

  Most letters are delayed in Uganda, which means it may take longer for you to receive letters from your child. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t write. We encourage you to continue sending your sponsored child letters of encouragement and hope. What a joyful day it will be when those letters are delivered.

  Are gifts being delivered?

  Gifts continue to be distributed in Uganda, but are delayed. Staff members have been given the option to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver, if necessary. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognising that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Bangladesh

  Most Compassion projects are open to small groups, while some remain closed

  Bangladesh has experienced varying levels of lockdown and quarantine restrictions throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Schools, churches and other community centres remained closed for a significant period to prevent the spread of the virus. The nation’s vaccination drive began in January 2021. One of the most significant issues facing the Bangladeshi population throughout the pandemic has been food insecurity, with many families losing their source of income completely. In addition, cyclone Amphan, which struck the southern coast of Bangladesh in May 2020, was a devastating challenge for families already living through the stress of the COVID-19 pandemic.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Through home visits and phone calls, local partners have maintained regular contact with children and their caregivers during lockdown. In addition, they have adapted support to be small-group or home-based and delivered food packs, hygiene kits, medical support, and educational resources to families. Compassion Bangladesh staff and local partners have sent more than 491,300 food packs and more than 523,300 hygiene kits. Additionally, they have provided medical support to more than 21,000 people.

  Are children receiving letters?

  The majority of letters are delayed in Bangladesh, which means it may take longer for you to receive letters from your child. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t write! We encourage you to continue sending your sponsored child letters of encouragement and hope. What a joyful day it will be when those letters are delivered.

  Are gifts being delivered?

  Gifts continue to be distributed in Bangladesh. Staff members have been given the option to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver, if necessary. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognising that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Indonesia

  Some Compassion projects are open, others open to small groups and others some remain closed.

  In July 2021, Indonesia became the global epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic, with daily reported cases reaching over 55,000. The nation's vaccination programme has commenced, and the government instigated various lockdowns and restrictions to try and slow the spread of the virus. Schools were temporarily closed in many areas. Many Indonesians have been deeply affected economically and emotionally by the pandemic and its restrictions, with reports of violence against children dramatically increasing.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  In Indonesia, our local church partners have continued to serve children in poverty by offering home-based care or gathering in small groups. Since the beginning of the pandemic, staff members have distributed nearly 2 million food packs and more than 1.3 million hygiene kits and have provided medical support to more than 230,200 individuals.

  Are children receiving letters?

  The majority of letters are delayed in Indonesia, which means it may take longer for you to receive letters from your child. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t write! We encourage you to continue sending your sponsored child letters of encouragement and hope. What a joyful day it will be when those letters are delivered.

  Are gifts being delivered?

  Gifts continue to be distributed in Indonesia. Staff members have been given the option to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver, if necessary. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognising that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Philippines

  Some projects are conducting home visits or hosting small group meetings for children and youths.

  The Philippines has experienced many challenges as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Eight months into their lockdown restrictions, an estimated four million Filipinos became unemployed, and a further eight million had their hours reduced. In addition, extended lockdowns have dramatically disrupted children’s access to healthcare and education and increased their vulnerability to exploitation and abuse.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Our local church partners have worked tirelessly to continue supporting vulnerable children. Most projects in the Philippines have not yet been able to resume their normal activities. However, local workers continue to conduct home visits to children and facilitate small group gatherings where possible. They have been able to distribute more than 1.5 million food packs and more than 888,400 hygiene kits. Additionally, nearly 197,200 people have been provided with medical support during this season.

  Are children receiving letters?

  The majority of letters are delayed in the Philippines, which means it may take longer for you to receive letters from your child. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t write! We encourage you to continue sending your sponsored child letters of encouragement and hope. What a joyful day it will be when those letters are delivered.

  Are gifts being delivered?

  Gifts continue to be distributed in the Philippines. Staff members have been given the option to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver, if necessary. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognising that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Sri Lanka

  Most Compassion projects are closed, while a handful are able to meet in small groups.

  Many Sri Lankans continue to struggle economically due to extended periods of strict lockdown during COVID-19. With schools having closed during these lockdowns, vulnerable children were further endangered by their lack of access to education for future opportunities. The nationwide lockdown was lifted in October 2021, and Sri Lanka's vaccination programme began. The country is also reopening for tourism—one of Sri Lanka's primary industries.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Local partners have adapted their activities to abide by restrictions and curfews. They have continued to support registered children through home visits, phone calls and small group gatherings where possible. Most projects continue to meet in smaller groups or at children's homes for the time being. Since the pandemic began, Compassion staff have distributed more than 191,000 food packs and nearly 79,000 hygiene kits and have provided medical support to more than 2,700 individuals.

  Are children receiving letters?

  The majority of letters are delayed in Sri Lanka, which means it may take longer for you to receive letters from your child. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t write! We encourage you to continue sending your sponsored child letters of encouragement and hope. What a joyful day it will be when those letters are delivered.

  Are gifts being delivered?

  Gifts continue to be distributed in Sri Lanka, but are delayed. Staff members have been given the option to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver, if necessary. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognising that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Thailand

  Most projects are now able to meet in small groups.

  Thailand was the first country outside China to record a COVID-19 case in January 2020. Since this time, COVID-19 cases have spread rapidly throughout the country. Hospitals have been inundated with patients requiring care and have struggled to cope with the dramatic increase in cases. Stay-at-home orders were in place for most Thai provinces at varying points throughout the pandemic. Though positive cases persist, the country has plans to reopen to international tourists to stimulate its troubled economy.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Our local church partners in Thailand have worked tirelessly to continue supporting children in poverty during the pandemic. Most projects are now able to meet in small groups. Some have resumed their usual activities. Since the pandemic began, Staff members have distributed more than 205,700 food packs and more than 86,400 hygiene kits to registered children and their families. Additionally, nearly 4,800 people have been provided with medical support during this season.

  Are children receiving letters?

  Letters are currently being delivered in Thailand, although delivery to and from your child may take a bit longer than normal. We encourage you to continue writing your child, as all children need words of hope and encouragement now more than ever before.

  Are gifts being delivered?

  Gifts continue to be distributed in Thailand. Staff members have been given the option to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver, if necessary. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognising that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Dominican Republic

  Most projects continue to meet with children either at their home, over the phone or in small groups.

  The COVID-19 situation in the Dominican Republic is stabilising. The nation has experienced varying levels of curfews and restrictions throughout the pandemic to slow the spread of the virus. In addition, the government has encouraged tourism to revive the nation's economy.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Local workers are slowly returning to their workplaces, though most projects continue to meet with children either at their home, over the phone or in small groups. Since the pandemic began, because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have distributed more than 262,200 food packs and more than 142,300 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  Are children receiving letters?

  Letters are currently being delivered in the Dominican Republic, although delivery to and from your child may take a bit longer than normal. We encourage you to continue writing your child, as all children need words of hope and encouragement now more than ever before.

  Are gifts being delivered?

  Gifts continue to be distributed in the Dominican Republic, but are delayed. Staff members have been given the option to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver, if necessary. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognising that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• El Salvador

  Most projects continue to meet with children at their home.

  All projects in El Salvador are closed

  The pandemic, natural disasters and gang violence have contributed to a huge increase in hunger in El Salvador, especially in rural areas. The government has commenced its vaccination programme, and most businesses are now operational without restrictions. Tourism remains promoted in El Salvador to restore lost jobs.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Compassion's local church partners in El Salvador have adapted to the changing guidelines by supporting children through home-cased care where possible. Local workers have even shared uplifting messages and public health information to benefit entire communities on local radio stations. They also have been able to distribute more than 566,000 food packs and more than 294,800 hygiene kits and provide medical support to more than 105,100 individuals.

  Are children receiving letters?

  The majority of letters are delayed in El Salvador, which means it may take longer for you to receive letters from your child. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t write! We encourage you to continue sending your sponsored child letters of encouragement and hope. What a joyful day it will be when those letters are delivered.

  Are gifts being delivered?

  Gifts continue to be distributed in El Salvador. Staff members have been given the option to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver, if necessary. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognising that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Guatemala

  Many projects continue to offer smaller gatherings or home visits.

  All projects in Guatemala are closed

  One of the biggest challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic for Guatemala has been finding enough food and clean water, especially for the poorest communities. To help alleviate the scarcity, various countries from the global community have sent funding to be used as humanitarian aid and help battle food insecurity. In addition, towards the end of 2020, Hurricanes Eta and Iota also caused significant damage throughout Guatemala, adding to the pandemic's challenges.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Local church partners have worked hard to adapt their programmes to suit the changing government restrictions. Many projects continue to offer smaller gatherings or home visits to slow the spread of the virus. Frontline church partners have delivered nearly 651,200 food packs and more than 282,600 hygiene kits to children and their families. Additionally, they have facilitated medical support for almost 28,500 individuals.

  Are children receiving letters?

  The majority of letters are delayed in Guatemala, which means it may take longer for you to receive letters from your child. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t write! We encourage you to continue sending your sponsored child letters of encouragement and hope. What a joyful day it will be when those letters are delivered!

  Are gifts being delivered?

  Gifts continue to be distributed in Guatemala. Staff members have been given the option to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver, if necessary. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognising that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Haiti

  All Haiti projects have reopened and resumed normal activities.

  Projects are open

  On the morning of 14 August 2021, a 7.2 magnitude earthquake hit southwestern Haiti. Reports from our staff on the ground indicated that 34 projects were destroyed. Those projects oversee more than 17,000 children. When a disaster strikes, our mission remains the same: to release children from poverty in Jesus' name. Compassion has a long history of serving the children of Haiti, and we're making every effort to support our affected church partners and the children in their care.
  Gang violence in Haiti continues to escalate, exacerbated by the assassination of the President in July 2021. Some hospitals considered shutting down because the danger was too great. Kidnappings are rampant, with gangs becoming increasingly bold as the local police lack resources to respond.
  Low COVID-19 testing rates in Haiti have made it difficult to know the full impacts of the pandemic. However, the nation's vaccination programme began in July 2021, and local staff have mostly resumed working from their offices.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  All Haiti projects have reopened and resumed normal activities, but some projects may be affected by the earthquake and ongoing unrest. Staff members carefully clean and sanitise the projects, and many projects with limited classroom space have children attending shifts to maintain proper social distancing. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have delivered nearly 163,000 food packs and more than 92,100 hygiene kits and have provided medical assistance to nearly 12,800 people.

  Are children receiving letters?

  The majority of letters are delayed in Haiti, which means it may take longer for you to receive letters from your child. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t write! We encourage you to continue sending your sponsored child letters of encouragement and hope. What a joyful day it will be when those letters are delivered.

  Are gifts being delivered?

  Gifts continue to be distributed in Haiti. Staff members have been given the option to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver, if necessary. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or a family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognising that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the child's best interest.

• Honduras

  Most projects continue to meet in smaller groups or through home visits.

  After the 2020 hurricane season and the COVID-19 pandemic, Honduras continues to rebuild, with millions still facing hunger and poverty. Other countries have joined the United States in providing aid to Honduras, which the government has stated they will use in their hurricane relief efforts.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  In Honduras, most projects continue to meet with registered children in smaller groups or through home visits. Some projects have now been able to resume normal activities safely. In addition, staff have delivered more than 419,300 food packs and just under 307,600 hygiene kits and have also facilitated medical support for almost 9,000 people.

  Are children receiving letters?

  Letters are currently being delivered in Honduras, although delivery to and from your child may take a bit longer than normal. We encourage you to continue writing your child, as all children need words of hope and encouragement now more than ever before.

  Are gifts being delivered?

  Gifts continue to be distributed in Honduras. Staff members have been given the option to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver, if necessary. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognising that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Mexico

  Many projects continue to meet with children in smaller groups or through home visits.

  The impact of COVID-19 in Mexico has been significant. Despite school closures and curfew restrictions being implemented in most Mexican states, the total case numbers and death toll are high. In addition, lockdown guidelines have varied from state to state, and the country's vaccination programme is now underway.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Local church partners are working hard to keep serving children registered in their programmes. Many projects continue to meet with children in smaller groups or through home visits to slow the spread of COVID-19. A small number of projects have resumed their normal activities. In addition, staff members have distributed nearly 504,000 food packs and more than 247,600 hygiene kits and have provided medical support to nearly 63,000 individuals.

  Are children receiving letters?

  At this point, we are not able to safely deliver letters to children registered at Compassion projects in Mexico. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t write. We encourage you to continue sending your sponsored child letters of encouragement and hope. What a joyful day it will be when those letters are delivered.

  Are gifts being delivered?

  Gifts continue to be distributed in Mexico, although they are currently delayed. In some communities, staff members have needed to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognising that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Nicaragua

  Most projects in Nicaragua have now resumed normal activities.

  Nicaragua has experienced significant economic loss and increased poverty due to the impacts of COVID-19 and the hurricane season of 2020. While reported positive cases in the country have been low, medical experts estimate the true figures to be much higher. Limited access to testing and restrictions on certain media coverage have affected these results. Nicaragua's vaccination programme began in March 2021, giving priority to those with pre-existing health conditions.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Most projects in Nicaragua have now resumed normal activities for registered children. Some continue to meet in small groups or support children through home visits. Since the pandemic began, staff members have distributed more than 255,000 food packs and more than 117,000 hygiene kits and provided more than 17,200 individuals with medical support.

  Are children receiving letters?

  The majority of letters are delayed in Nicaragua, which means it may take longer for you to receive letters from your child. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t write. We encourage you to continue sending your sponsored child letters of encouragement and hope. What a joyful day it will be when those letters are delivered.

  Are gifts being delivered?

  Gifts continue to be distributed in Nicaragua. Staff members have been given the option to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver, if necessary. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognising that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Bolivia

  Most projects continue to serve through home visits and phone calls.

  Bolivian schools were closed to slow the spread of COVID-19 between August 2020 and February 2021. In addition, masks and social distancing were required in all public places, though most public transport, restaurants and other businesses remained operational with restrictions. Case numbers peaked in June 2021, however, there were no mandated lockdowns in Bolivia during this time.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  The local church in Bolivia has worked hard to adapt its programmes and support children and their families during the pandemic. Regular contact and individualised care was maintained through phone calls and home visit where possible. In addition, since the crisis began, staff members have distributed almost 1.4 million food packs and more than 623,000 hygiene kits and provided more than 109,400 individuals with medical support.

  Are children receiving letters?

  Letters are currently being delivered in Bolivia, although delivery to and from your child may take a bit longer than normal. We encourage you to continue writing your child, as all children need words of hope and encouragement now more than ever before.

  Are gifts being delivered?

  Gifts continue to be distributed in Bolivia. Staff members have been given the option to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver, if necessary. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognising that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Brazil

  Most projects are offering small group activities.

  Restrictions and lockdown measures in Brazil during the COVID-19 pandemic varied according to location. Cases peaked in June 2021, with a staggering 115,011 positive cases reported on 23 June. The nation’s robust agricultural sector, as well as stimulus packages from the government, have helped Brazil’s economy to remain relatively strong despite the pandemic’s significant challenges. Food prices have increased, however, which has been very difficult for families in poverty.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Our church partners in Brazil adapted the way they provided support to children and families by gathering in small groups, conducting home visits or making telephone contact. Local partners are making every effort to provide for children's basic needs, including delivering more than 633,200 food baskets and more than 420,000 hygiene kits. Additionally, they have provided medical support to nearly 139,200 people.

  Are children receiving letters?

  Most letters are delayed in Brazil, which means it may take longer for you to receive letters from your child. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t write. We encourage you to continue sending your sponsored child letters of encouragement and hope. What a joyful day it will be when those letters are delivered.

  Are gifts being delivered?

  Gifts continue to be distributed in Brazil, although they are currently delayed. In some communities, staff members have needed to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognising that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Colombia

  Most projects are closed, while a handful offer small group activities.

  Government restrictions during the pandemic have slowly eased in Colombia as vaccination rates rise. COVID-19 case numbers peaked in June 2021, with over 33,000 daily cases reported. To protect the health of children, families and staff, and to follow local guidelines, most projects in Colombia continue to support children through remote contact and home visits where possible.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  A few Compassion projects have reopened for small groups to gather while practising COVID-19 safety measures, but the majority remain closed. Staff members have created online curriculum lessons and devotionals. Partner churches continue to monitor home situations for child protection and monitor families quarantined or have tested positive for COVID-19. Since the pandemic began, they have distributed almost 1.1 million food packs and more than 424,400 hygiene kits to families and have facilitated medical support for nearly 28,200 individuals.

  Are children receiving letters?

  The majority of letters are delayed in Colombia, which means it may take longer for you to receive letters from your child. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t write! We encourage you to continue sending your sponsored child letters of encouragement and hope. What a joyful day it will be when those letters are delivered!

  Are gifts being delivered?

  Gifts continue to be distributed in Colombia. In some communities, staff members have needed to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognising that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Ecuador

  Most projects in Ecuador are closed, some are conducting small group activities.

  The pandemic has sadly exacerbated poverty and unemployment rates in Ecuador. The hospital system has experienced great strain due to the number of COVID-19 cases. The government has now begun its COVID-19 vaccination programme, and local restrictions will ease as vaccination rates increase.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Projects in Ecuador continue to support registered children through home visits, phone calls and some small group gatherings. Project workers have delivered more than 1.1 million food packs and more than 416,000 hygiene kits and have provided medical support to nearly 53,000 individuals since the pandemic began.

  Are children receiving letters?

  The majority of letters are delayed in Ecuador, which means it may take longer for you to receive letters from your child. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t write! We encourage you to continue sending your sponsored child letters of encouragement and hope. What a joyful day it will be when those letters are delivered.

  Are gifts being delivered?

  Gifts continue to be distributed in Ecuador, although they are currently delayed. In some communities, staff members have needed to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognising that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Peru

  Most projects are meeting small groups or supporting children through home visits.

  Peru has been hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. Hospitals have been totally overwhelmed by the number of positive cases, with low supplies and limited beds available for severe cases. A large proportion of the population are informal workers who have faced the difficult decision of staying home and earning no income or going to work and risking contact with the virus.

  The nation implemented strict lockdown restrictions in early 2020 and again in January 2021 during a second wave of the virus. The COVID-19 vaccine rollout has begun, and case numbers in Peru are dropping.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Our local Peruvian church partners have creatively adapted the way they support children during the pandemic. Most projects continue to meet in small groups or through home visits rather than large gatherings. Partner churches are working closely with local authorities to deliver supplies to families and have been able to distribute almost 1.1 million food packs and more than 855,500 hygiene kits. Additionally, they have helped more than 79,400 individuals access medical support during the pandemic.

   

  Are children receiving letters?

  The majority of letters are delayed in Peru, which means it may take longer for you to receive letters from your child. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t write! We encourage you to continue sending your sponsored child letters of encouragement and hope. What a joyful day it will be when those letters are delivered!

  Are gifts being delivered?

  Gifts continue to be distributed in the Peru. Staff members have been given the option to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver, if necessary. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognising that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

How is your sponsorship working

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Compassion’s church partners across the globe have been adapting fast. We’ve been making some temporary changes to how your sponsorship donations are used and distributed, ensuring our local church partners can respond quickly to the specific situations and needs in their local communities.

In many of the countries where we work, Compassion is empowering local churches to redeploy sponsorship funds that are ordinarily used for group activities at the local church, so they can meet urgent and critical needs of families with children and young people registered in the programme. This includes necessities such as food, clean water, shelter, clothing, household items, and even medical care and trauma counselling.

Please take a few moments to watch this video from Sydney Muisyo, Compassion’s Head of Global Programme to hear more about what this change looks like and how our incredible church partners are adapting.

As some countries see a lifting of restrictions, there are a number of Compassion projects that are gradually re-opening, returning to our traditional project-based programme. You can find details of where this is happening in the country list above.

Compassion IRELAND

We’re still open for phone, email, and chat, and our friendly team are available for your queries or if you’d like someone to pray with at this time, with the following changes to normal service:

As this crisis continues, please continue to pray for those deeply impacted by this pandemic. Our Compassion staff, volunteers and frontline church partners across the world are working diligently and creatively to address immediate needs and to help vulnerable children and their families rebuild from lasting effects of the pandemic. Thank you for your continued support and prayers.

ARTICLE TAGS:
child sponsorship programme, Prayer