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: 26 April 2021

• Burkina Faso

  Projects offering limited programme activity

  Active COVID-19 cases in Burkina Faso were reported to be 200 on 5 April 2021, but the true figure may be higher because testing is limited to about 2,000 rapid tests a day. In some hospitals, resources are low for non-COVID-19 patients because budgets have gone toward fighting the virus, so hospital staff have been paying for those resources themselves. Some medical staff have left the north and east parts of the country to escape instability and violence that have led to the internal displacement of more than 1 million people. Many are without clean water, food, shelter, or medical care. Famine-like conditions have been reported, and aid workers say half a million children under age 5 are acutely malnourished. As the situation continues to develop, women and children are especially vulnerable to exploitation, violence, and malnutrition.
  Most projects are allowing children to return in small groups for activities and classes, but some are only able to make home visits and phone calls to check in on families. Compassion partner churches have distributed more than 565,500 food packs and 490,000 hygiene kits to families and continue to work to raise awareness of COVID-19 preventative measures. They also have helped nearly 92,000 individuals obtain medical care.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Most projects in Burkina Faso are hosting small group activities and classes while following safety protocols. Staff members continue to make phone calls and home visits to children and caregivers. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute more than 565,500 food packs and 490,000 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  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

  Projects offering limited programme activity

  Ethiopia is reporting nearly 2,000 new cases of COVID-19 a day in April 2021 – the highest average reported there since the beginning of the pandemic. The country’s vaccine campaign has begun, with the goal of vaccinating 20% of the population by the end of this year. Along with the pandemic, armed conflict, flooding, and multiple locust invasions have created an extreme humanitarian crisis. Fighting began in the Tigray region in November 2020, blocking humanitarian aid and displacing up to 2 million people, thousands of whom are seeking refuge in Sudan. The Ethiopian Red Cross has said that 80% of those who remain in Tigray have no access to humanitarian aid and thousands could starve to death this spring. Nationwide, families are struggling to earn a wage and obtain food because of the instability, the economic slowdown, and the destruction of crops. Some areas are recording a 50% increase in hospitalisations due to severe acute malnutrition.

  Projects in some regions are allowing children to return in small groups for activities and classes. In other regions, projects remain closed for safety. Staff members continue to make home visits and phone calls to families. They are diligently checking on children, looking for signs of abuse and providing trauma counselling as needed. Partner church staff members have distributed almost 943,000 food packs and more than 555,000 hygiene kits and have provided medical support to more than 40,000 individuals.

   

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Projects are operating at a variety of capacities depending on their region. Some projects remain closed to group activities, but staff members are making home visits and phone calls to children and caregivers. Other projects have been able to allow small group classes and activities. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute nearly 943,000 food packs and more than 555,000 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  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

  Projects offering limited programme activity

  In Ghana, the rate of COVID-19 infection is decreasing, with an average of 70 cases being reported per day. As of 5 April 2021, the country of 29.3 million had administered 500,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine, enough to fully immunise 0.8% of the population. Wearing of face masks is required in public spaces.

  Many Compassion projects are cautiously inviting children and youths back in small groups for classes, to take updated photos and to write letters. Some projects have been able to work with local radio stations to air curricula for students at home. Others make home visits and phone calls to check on children and their families. Staff continue to handle health screenings, emergency medical care, child protection interventions and disaster response for Compassion sponsored children as needed. So far, staff members have been able to provide more than 208,500 food packs and 176,600 hygiene kits, as well as medical support to more than 72,000 individuals.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Many projects in Ghana have restarted activities, welcoming small groups of children and youths on a rotating basis. Staff members also continue to make phone calls and conduct home visits. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute more than 208,500 food packs and 176,600 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  Are children receiving letters?

  Most letters are delayed in Ghana, which means it may take longer for you to receive letters from your sponsored 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 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

  Projects offering limited programme activity

  Kenya is experiencing a third wave of the pandemic. In response, the president reimposed restrictions on movement into and out of the capital, Nairobi, and four other counties in late March 2021. As of 5 April 2021, Kenya had administered enough doses to fully vaccinate about 0.2% of its 48.4 million people. Scientific researchers say two-thirds of people surveyed in Kenya have experienced economic hardship due to the pandemic, and the number living with food insecurity increased by 38%. Many families rely on day-to-day employment and are struggling to feed themselves.

  About three-quarters of the projects have resumed limited meetings; these are commonly small groups of children in homes and/or small groups of youths at the projects. The rest of the projects remain closed for safety, and staff members there continue to make home visits and phone calls to check on families. Church partners are working to provide psychological support to help the children and families who are experiencing anxiety caused by the pandemic. We are grateful to report that staff members have distributed nearly 230,000 food packs and 55,000 hygiene kits and have provided medical support to more than 67,000 individuals.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Most projects in Kenya have restarted, welcoming small groups of children and youths in shifts for classes and activities, either in homes, in villages or at the projects. Staff members also continue to make phone calls and conduct home visits. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute nearly 230,000 food packs and 55,000 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  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

  Projects offering limited programme activity

  On 6 April 2021, Rwanda recorded an average of 170 new infections per day for the previous week and a total of 311 related deaths since the beginning of the pandemic. Up to that date, Rwanda had administered enough doses to fully vaccinate about 1.4% of its population of 12.7 million people. The government continues to mandate precautionary health measures, including frequent handwashing and social distancing. Face masks must be worn not only in public but also in multifamily compounds. Schools and universities have reopened. The government announced a plan to more than triple its Economic Recovery Fund to support businesses that have been impacted by the pandemic.

  Projects in Rwanda are open only for small group meetings of children and youths. Staff are careful to take COVID-19 prevention measures and follow local guidelines. They have been able to deliver nearly 83,000 food packs and almost 534,000 hygiene kits to children and families. Additionally, they have helped more than 55,000 individuals obtain medical support.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Projects in Rwanda have reopened for limited numbers of children and youths at a time and are complying with local guidelines and appropriate COVID-19 prevention measures. Staff members continue to make home visits and phone calls to children and caregivers. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute nearly 83,000 food packs and almost 534,000 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  Are children receiving letters?

  The majority of letters are delayed in Rwanda, 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 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

  Projects are open

  Following the death of late President John Magagula in March 2021, the Tanzanian government appears to be reversing his policy of denial of the danger of COVID-19. The Ministry of Health website now contains science-based guidelines for treatment of the coronavirus, including the use of personal protective equipment for health care workers and masks for patients. The Magagula administration stopped tracking COVID-19 cases a year ago, but there have been persistent reports of people hospitalised and dying with symptoms consistent with COVID-19; credible sources have reported that Magufuli died from the disease, though the official cause was heart disease. Samia Suluhu Hassan was sworn in on 19 March 2021 as the country's first female president.

  Compassion projects are open and holding normal activities. Hygiene kits and multiple handwashing stations are available at every project. Classrooms and playground equipment are regularly sanitised. Staff members continue to educate children on COVID-19 prevention. Since the beginning of the pandemic, they have been able to distribute nearly 63,000 food packs and 105,000 hygiene kits to families and provide medical support to more than 30,000 individuals.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Projects in Tanzania have reopened and are holding normal activities. Staff members carefully clean and sanitise the projects. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute nearly 63,000 food packs and 105,000 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  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

  Projects offering limited programme activity

  COVID-19 infections are increasing in Togo; the average daily number of new infections was 176 on 5 April 2021. Up to that date, Togo had administered enough doses to fully vaccinate 0.3% of its 8.6 million people. For the fourth time since the beginning of the pandemic, Togo is extending its State of Health Emergency. Stores, markets, restaurants, and bars are open although most religious services and churches remain closed. Everyone must adhere to preventive measures such as handwashing, wearing a mask, and social distancing, always and in all places.

  Most Compassion projects in Togo have been able to safely resume meeting in small groups, abiding by local guidelines. A very small number have resumed normal activities. Partner church staff continue to make regular home visits to monitor the health of children and families, deliver curricula and pray with them. Staff members have been able to safely deliver more than 521,600 food packs and almost 336,000 hygiene kits to families, in addition to providing medical support to nearly 69,000 individuals.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Compassion projects in Togo are all open with the majority meeting in small groups. Staff at partner churches continue to make home visits. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, staff members have been able to safely deliver more than 521,600 food packs and almost 336,000 hygiene kits to families.

  Are children receiving letters?

  Letters are currently being delivered in Togo, 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 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

  Projects offering limited programme activity

  On average, Uganda is reporting 25 new cases of COVID-19 per day in April 2021, which is a steep decrease from its peak of nearly 1,200 in December 2020. As of 5 April 2021, Uganda had administered enough doses to fully vaccinate 0.1% of its 40.9 million people. A nationwide curfew is enforced from 9pm to 6am. Citizens are expected to wear face masks while in public and observe a safe, social distance. Schools began reopening in March 2021 on staggered shifts and have been asked by the Ugandan president to follow safety guidelines.

  Compassion projects in Uganda are operating at a variety of capacities depending on the region. Many projects have been able to welcome children and youth back to classes and activities in small groups. Others remain closed while staff members make home visits and phone calls to check on families and provide assistance. Staff members have been able to distribute more than 114,000 food packs and almost 435,000 hygiene kits to Compassion-assisted families, and they have provided medical support to almost 97,000 individuals.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Depending on the region, many projects in Uganda have restarted, welcoming small groups of children and youth for classes and activities. Staff members also continue to make phone calls and conduct home visits. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute more than 114,000 food packs and almost 435,000 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  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. 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

  Projects offering limited programme activity

  Bangladesh reached its peak number of active COVID-19 cases this month, registering more than 7,000 new infections daily on 4 and 5 April 2021, with 52 deaths on 5 April 2021. At the time, the country had administered enough doses to fully vaccinate 1.6% of its 162.7 million people . The government decreed a 7-day lockdown on 5 April 2021 to curb the surge in cases and deaths. Bangladesh requires mask wearing and social distancing when not at home, and failure to comply could lead to a fine. Primary schools will remain closed until May 2021 and students will be taught online.

  Most projects have resumed activities for children and youths in small groups in outdoor courtyards. Where that is not possible, staff members maintain regular contact with children and caregivers through home visits and phone calls. Compassion Bangladesh staff and local partners have been able to send more than 340,500 food packs and 351,000 hygiene kits to sponsored children’s families. Additionally, they have provided medical support to almost 10,000 people. They report that many families have no source of income, so they are providing necessary funds to buy daily essentials.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  At most locations, activities have resumed, and small group meetings are held outdoors. Elsewhere, staff members are creating virtual activities and distributing at-home curricula. They continue to call and check in on families and make home visits when possible. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute more than 340,500 food packs and 351,000 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  Are children receiving letters?

  Letters are currently being delivered in Bangladesh, 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 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

  Projects offering limited programme activity

  Daily new COVID-19 cases have been declining in Indonesia since January 2021, but the rate was still nearly 5,250 per day on 6 April 2021. The country had administered enough doses to fully vaccinate about 2.3% of the population by that date. Vaccination is mandatory; local governments can impose fines and stop social assistance payments to those who refuse. Mask wearing and social distancing are also mandatory, and large gatherings and travel are limited. The pandemic has taken a huge economic and emotional toll on Indonesians; according to the Indonesian Child Protection Commission, 42% of mothers and 32% of fathers said they have committed physical violence on their children in the past year.

  The status of Compassion church partners varies widely. While a small number are open for normal activities, many are able only to meet in small groups for limited activities, and most are ministering only through home visits. Mentors and tutors are bringing food supplies to children’s homes weekly and are helping some families plant gardens at their homes. Since the beginning of the pandemic, staff members have distributed more than 1.3 million food packs, almost 986,000 hygiene kits and provided medical support to more than 139,000 individuals.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Some projects have reopened with small group meetings for children and youths, but many remain closed. Staff members continue to make home visits and phone calls to provide assistance to children and caregivers. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, staff members have been able to distribute more than 1.3 million food packs and almost 986,000 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  Are children receiving letters?

  Letters are currently being delivered in Indonesia, 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 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 offering limited programme activity

  Amid an alarming surge of COVID-19 infections, the Philippine government extended its lockdown of Metropolitan Manila and four outlying provinces until at least 11 April 2021. With more than 10,000 new infections reported daily, hospitals are unable to meet the demand for care, and the government announced on 5 April 2021 that it would set up mobile intensive care units around the capital city. As of 6 April 2021, the country had administered enough doses to fully vaccinate 0.4% of its 109.2 million people. In-person teaching at schools and universities is suspended. Once it resumes on a trial basis, students will attend for half days to decrease crowding and risk of infection.

  Compassion partner churches and projects are still closed for large group activities, but in some districts, children and youths can meet at projects in small groups while following safety guidelines. Project workers continue to give relief supplies to families and children. They have been able to distribute more than 1 million food packs and almost 622,000 hygiene kits. Additionally, more than 107,000 people have been provided with medical support during this season.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Some projects are hosting small group meetings for children and youths. Staff members continue to make home visits and phone calls to check on children and families. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute more than 1 million food packs and almost 622,000 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  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

  Some projects offering limited programme activity

  COVID-19 infections are decreasing in Sri Lanka; the average daily number of new cases was 184 for the week prior to 6 April 2021. The country had administered enough doses to fully vaccinate about 2.1% of its 22.0 million people by 6 April 2021. Families in poverty throughout South Asia, including Sri Lanka, will continue to suffer drastic losses in health, nutrition, and social well-being due to disruptions in services caused by the pandemic, according to a report released by the United Nations in March 2021. That report predicted an increase in child and maternal deaths, malnutrition, child stunting, and adolescent deaths from non-COVID preventable diseases.

  Project staff continue to check in on families through phone calls and occasional home visits when child protection issues arise. Most projects are conducting small group meetings for children and teens. Partners have distributed more than 164,000 food packs and almost 79,000 hygiene kits and provided medical support to nearly 5,000 individuals.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Projects in Sri Lanka have begun a phased reopening. Most projects are meeting in small groups though staff members continue to make home visits and phone calls to check in on families. Staff members also continue to monitor urgent needs and child protection issues. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute more than 164,000 food packs and almost 79,000 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  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. 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, recognizing that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Thailand

  Projects offering limited programme activity

  Thailand has had relatively few cases of COVID-19, although the number of new infections spiked to 250 on 6 April 2021, largely due to clusters in a jail and in Bangkok entertainment venues. Since the pandemic began, the country has reported just under 30,000 infections and 95 coronavirus-related deaths. As of 6 April 2021, Thailand had administered enough doses to fully vaccinate about 0.2% of its 68.6 million people, starting with medical workers, government leaders and the elderly. The national economy is faltering due to decreased tourism, and half of the hotels in Thailand are closed indefinitely, leaving many people without income. To help promote tourism, the government has set a priority to vaccinate residents of its most popular resort island ahead of the rest of the country.

  About three-quarters of the Compassion projects have reopened and are conducting normal activities while maintaining safety measures. The remainder meet in small groups, and a few conduct home visits where children and their families are visited by staff and tutors at their homes. Staff members have been able to distribute more than 145,000 food packs and nearly 79,000 hygiene kits to registered children and their families. Additionally, almost 4,800 people have been provided with medical support during this season.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  About 71% of Compassion projects in Thailand have been able to reopen while abiding by local guidelines for group sizes and social distancing. Staff members from all projects continue to check on families and ensure that their needs are being met. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute almost more than 145,000 food packs and nearly 79,000 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  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, recognizing that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Dominican Republic

  All projects in the Dominican Republic are closed

  COVID-19 infections are decreasing in the Dominican Republic, which reported an average of 321 new infections per day for the week prior to 6 April 2021. As of that date, the country had administered enough doses to fully vaccinate 5.1% of its 10.5 million people. A curfew is in place with differing hours on weekdays and weekends.

  All Compassion projects are closed. Working from home, staff members are providing spiritual and emotional support to families, through phone calls, video calls and virtual methods. They have also delivered almost 188,000 food packs and nearly 92,000 hygiene kits, while complying with guidelines. They are also working with local doctors to facilitate telehealth calls with families and have helped provide medical support to almost 11,000 individuals. Mentors and tutors are keeping in touch with children and youth through online meetings and social media.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Currently, all projects in the Dominican Republic are closed to abide by local guidelines. Staff members continue to call and check in on families, and in some communities, they can visit children while obeying social distancing guidelines. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute almost 188,000 food packs and nearly 92,000 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  Are children receiving letters?

  The majority of letters are delayed in the Dominican Republic, 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 Dominican Republic. 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

  All projects in El Salvador are closed

  Due to the economic crisis caused by the pandemic and years of extreme climate events, hunger has increased dramatically in El Salvador, according to the World Food Program. As many as 85% of families in rural areas face food insecurity. El Salvador reported an average of 151 new cases per day for the week prior to 6 April 2021. As of that date, El Salvador had administered enough doses to fully vaccinate about 1% of its 6.5 million people. The government announced it would give priority to vaccinating all education workers so that the country can more safely resume in-person classes.

  Compassion partner churches are supporting vulnerable families with food and available medicine and developing online tutoring materials so children can continue learning from home. Project workers are following up in situations where child protection is needed. They also have been able to distribute more than 395,500 food packs and almost 206,000 hygiene kits and to provide medical support to nearly 63,000 individuals. Compassion El Salvador has shared uplifting messages and public health information for entire communities through local radio stations.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Currently, all projects in El Salvador are closed to abide by local guidelines. Staff continue to call and visit families at home while obeying social distancing guidelines. They have created video classes for children and youths. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute more than 395,500 food packs and almost 206,000 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  Are children receiving letters?

  At this point, we are not able to safely deliver letters to children registered at Compassion projects in El Salvador. 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

  All projects in Guatemala are closed

  The number of Guatemalans who do not have enough food has nearly doubled during the pandemic as families have suffered income loss and unemployment, according to the World Food Program. Devastation from Hurricanes Eta and Iota last fall caused many families in extreme poverty to go into debt to eat. Children are now even more likely to become malnourished and stop going to schools – 1,200 of which were damaged or destroyed in Central America – as recovery efforts proceed slowly. Water systems remain contaminated, causing exposure to life-threatening illnesses. Although the economic effects of the pandemic persist, coronavirus infections are trending downward in Guatemala; the average daily number of new cases was 303 in the week preceding 6 April 2021. As of that date, the country had administered enough doses to fully vaccinate 0.3%its 17.2 million people.

  Compassion projects have suspended in-person classes and activities. Staff and volunteers are making home visits to stay in touch with Compassion sponsored children and follow up on their needs. They also provided monthly magazines so children can continue to learn about God and ways they can take care of themselves. Some classes and activities are held virtually. Frontline church partners have delivered more than 521,000 food packs and nearly 203,000 hygiene kits to children and their families. Additionally, they have facilitated medical support for nearly 11,000 individuals.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  At this point, all projects in Guatemala are closed to abide by local guidelines. Staff members are still visiting, calling, and checking in on families virtually. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute more than 521,000 food packs and nearly 203,000 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  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

  Projects are open

  Cases of COVID-19 are decreasing in Haiti. Since the beginning of the pandemic, the country has seen more than 12,800 cases and suffered 251 related deaths. The true numbers could be much higher, however, because the diagnostic test is not free; in fact, it is too expensive for most people. More than the pandemic, Haitians are troubled by the dangers of constant political protests, gang violence and the rampant surge of kidnappings that have disrupted daily life, particularly in cities. Humanitarian aid is needed by approximately 4.4 million people, nearly a third of the population. Child trafficking for labour and sexual exploitation has increased in border areas as the pandemic has further boosted the poverty rate; parents are sometimes deceived into giving their children to those who say they will provide them with a better life. Schools are open and no curfew is in place, but the government has called for people to wear face masks in public areas where social distancing cannot be maintained.

  Compassion projects throughout the country have resumed normal on-site activities. They are following strict protocols to keep children and youth safe from the coronavirus. Partner church workers have been able to deliver more than 162,600 food packs and 92,000 hygiene kits and have provided medical assistance to nearly 12,800 people.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  All projects in Haiti have reopened and resumed normal activities. Staff members carefully clean and sanitise the projects, and many projects with limited classroom space have children attending in shifts so they can maintain proper social distancing. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute more than 162,600 food packs and 92,000 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  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 family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognizing that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Honduras

  Projects in Honduras are closed

  Honduras is facing an enormous increase in hunger and poverty from the dual effects of the pandemic and 2020 hurricanes. The number of households without enough food has increased by more than 50% during the pandemic, according to the World Food Program. Flooding from the hurricanes left thousands of people homeless and destroyed both staple food crops and cash crops, including coffee farms. The poverty rate has increased from 65% to 75%. Cases of COVID-19 in Honduras are declining; an average of 541 new cases were reported daily in the week before 6 April 2021. As of 5 April 2021, Honduras had administered enough doses to fully vaccinate 0.3% of its 9.2 million people. Businesses in the country are currently operating at 50% capacity while recreation sites such as bars, gyms and theatres are closed. A curfew is in place from 9pm to 5am.

  Compassion projects are closed, although frontline church workers are keeping in touch with families via phone calls and are conducting video classes for the children where possible. They have delivered almost 286,000 food packs, 197,000 hygiene kits and have also been able to facilitate medical support for nearly 4,000 people.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  At this point, all projects in Honduras are closed to abide by local guidelines. Staff members are still calling and checking in on families and conducting virtual classes. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute almost 286,000 food packs and 197,000 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  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. Thank you for your ministry.

  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

  Projects offering limited online programme activity

  Mexico’s COVID-related death toll is extremely high, at 204,399, even with the low rate of testing. In March 2021, Mexico released data that could increase that number by 60%. The country reported 3,409 new cases of COVID-19 on average each day in early April 2021. As of 6 April 2021, the country had administered enough doses to fully vaccinate about 3.6% of its 128.6 million people. Indigenous communities that distrust the government have refused vaccination. Health authorities have called for citizens to stay home as much as possible, follow social distancing guidelines, employ frequent hand hygiene, and wear masks in public. Schools are closed in nearly all Mexican states. Curfew restrictions vary based on the region.

  Most Compassion projects are making calls and home visits to check in on children and their families; about 20% have begun meeting in small groups. All frontline church partners have received flyers on disease prevention and treatment that they can print and distribute in their communities. Staff members have been able to distribute more than 360,000 food packs and 183,600 hygiene kits and have provided medical support to nearly 36,000 individuals.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Nearly all projects in Mexico are temporarily closed, though some can hold small group activities. Staff members continue to call and visit at home. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute more than 360,000 food packs and 183,600 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  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

  Projects offering limited programme activity

  Nicaragua is experiencing a huge increase in hunger due to economic losses caused by the pandemic and 2020 hurricanes. More than 85% of rural families do not have enough food, according to a survey by several nongovernmental organisations. Years of drought have destroyed crops and forced people into debt to survive. Thousands urgently need immediate assistance. Coronavirus cases are low in Nicaragua; the country reported an average of five new infections daily in the week before 6 April 2021. Since the pandemic began, there have been reports of 5,326 infections and 177 related deaths. A vaccine campaign started in early March 2021, giving priority to those with pre-existing conditions.

  Many Nicaraguan projects are planning or have begun a phased reopening. Staff members continue to call and visit families and children. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute about 218,000 food packs and 107,000 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Many Nicaraguan projects are planning or have begun a phased reopening. Staff members from many projects continue to make home visits and provide virtual activities for children and families. Since the pandemic began, staff members have distributed almost 238,000 food packs and nearly 123,000 hygiene kits and provided more than 7,600 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

  Projects in Bolivia are closed

  Bolivian schools partially reopened in February after a year of being closed. Combined with the lack of personal computers and internet access, the shift to virtual learning has had a catastrophic effect on children in the poorest households, according to the United Nations, which warned that the consequences are devastating not just academically but also in development of social skills and overall mental well-being. In addition, the lengthy closure of schools puts children at higher risk of never returning or being forced into marriage or labour. COVID-19 infections are decreasing in Bolivia, with 720 new infections reported on average each day of the week prior to 6 April 2021. As of that date, the country had administered enough doses to fully vaccinate about 1.4% of its 11.6 million people. The national government closed the border with Brazil until at least 8 April 2021 to prevent the entry of new strains of the disease.

  Group activities at all Compassion projects remain on hold. Staff and volunteers are calling Compassion sponsored children to provide spiritual and emotional support and visiting families where possible. Since the crisis began, staff members have distributed more than 894,000 food packs and almost 434,000 hygiene kits and provided nearly 44,000 individuals with medical support.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Currently, all projects in Bolivia are closed. However, staff members continue to call families and visit homes where possible. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute more than 894,000 food packs and almost 434,000 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  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

  Projects offering limited programme activity

  With more than 13 million people having been infected, Brazil is the Latin American country most affected by the pandemic. Although Brazil has less than 3% of the world’s people, it is experiencing nearly one-third of the daily global deaths from COVID-19. Intensive care units in 25 of the 27 states are over 80% capacity, and several countries have shut their borders with Brazil to try to stop the virus from spreading. As of 6 April 2021, Brazil had administered enough doses to fully vaccinate about 5.2% of its 211.7 million people. Millions of Brazilians are unemployed, and there is concern more than a mounting financial crisis.

  Only a handful of projects are open for normal activities. Most can only carry out activities virtually or with small groups of children and youths. Local partners are making every effort to provide for the basic needs of Compassion sponsored children, including the delivery of more than 401,000 food baskets and 293,000 hygiene kits. Additionally, they have provided medical support to more than 24,000 people.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Projects in Brazil have begun a phased reopening. Most are carrying out activities virtually or with small groups of children and youths. Staff members continue to call and check in on families, and in some communities, they are able to visit children while obeying social distancing guidelines. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute more than 366,000 food baskets and 283,000 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  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, recognizing that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

• Colombia

  Projects in Colombia are closed

  Colombia is experiencing a third wave of COVID-19 and has tightened restrictions until at least 19 April 2021. The department of Antioquia and city of Barranquilla are at the epicentre of the current outbreak; the mayor of Bogota said that city would go on lockdown 10 April 2021. The average number of deaths reported in the country each day rose by more than 81 to 199 on 5 April 2021. As of that date, Colombia had administered enough doses to fully vaccinate about 2.4% of its 9.1 million people. Poverty and hunger have increased because of the pandemic. In a survey of 34,000 families conducted by humanitarian organizations, 98% said they could not afford all their basic needs, including food and housing.

  Currently, all projects in Colombia are closed. Staff members are interacting with children and youths through online activities, including videos and livestreams. They continue to call and check in on families and make home visits. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute more than 654,000 food packs and 296,000 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Currently, all projects in Colombia are closed. Staff members are interacting with children and youths through online activities, including videos and livestreams. They continue to call and check in on families and make home visits. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute more than 609,000 food packs and 282,000 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  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, 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.

• Ecuador

  All projects in Ecuador are closed

  Ecuador’s health system is severely strained by a spike in coronavirus infections approaching its peak of last year. The country reported an average of 1,664 new daily infections in the week prior to 6 April 2021. As of that date, Ecuador had administered enough doses to fully vaccinate 0.8% of its 16.9 million people. Indigenous groups have been hit hard by the virus; many who live in remote areas have little access to testing or hospitals. The commerce, industry, tourism, transport, and health sectors in Ecuador have been badly affected by the economic slowdown, and experts believe a surge in lost jobs will push many families into extreme poverty. Young women and low-skilled workers are particularly vulnerable, as many of them have lost their jobs.

  Nearly all Compassion projects are closed to on-site activities, though a few can welcome small groups of children and youths. Church staff members continue to provide emotional and spiritual support by making regular phone calls to families and visiting homes where it is possible. Project workers have been able to deliver more than 707,000 food packs and 241,000 hygiene kits and have provided medical support to more than 20,000 individuals since the pandemic began.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  Nearly all projects in Ecuador are closed to abide by local guidelines. A small number can hold meetings with small groups of Compassion sponsored children. Depending on the region, staff members are either making home visits to families and children or connecting through phone and video calls. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute more than 639,000 food packs and 208,000 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  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

  Projects in Peru are closed

  Cases of COVID-19 are increasing quickly in Peru, where the mortality rate is very high . The country reported a daily average of 8,155 new infections for the week prior to 6 April 2021. Since the pandemic began, there have been 1,590,209 infections and 53,138 coronavirus-related deaths. Peru has administered enough doses to fully vaccinate about 1.4% of its 31.9 million people as of 6 April 2021. Hunger is increasing, as household incomes have fallen by an average of 33% In the past year.

  All Compassion projects have suspended on-site children's and youths' activities. The national staff and church partners are monitoring children and families who are vulnerable due to extreme poverty, possible abuse, or health complications. Partner churches are working closely with local authorities to deliver supplies to families and have been able to distribute more than 752,600 food packs and nearly 516,000 hygiene kits. Additionally, they have helped nearly 45,000 individuals access medical support during the pandemic.

  Are Compassion projects open?

  At this point, all projects in Peru are closed to abide by local guidelines. Staff members are still calling and encouraging children and families. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute more than 752,600 food packs and nearly 516,000 hygiene kits to children and their families.

  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, recognizing that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

How your sponsorship is 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 UK

In line with government advice and updates from Public Health England all international travel is currently suspended and most of our UK team are working from home. We remain committed to serving our supporters with excellence and are doing all we can to minimise any impact on the service you receive from Compassion UK.

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 we have fewer staff available to serve you, we’ve reduced our opening hours to 9:30am-5pm, Monday-Friday. Please do leave us a voicemail if you need a call back outside these hours.
• We're now able to handle post again at Compassion House and are processing letters from sponsors to children.

Thank you for your patience at this complex time.

Please join us in continuing to pray for protection for those affected and wisdom for those making decisions – governments and health experts around the world - as they look to contain the spread of this virus. For more prayer points please visit our prayer page.

ARTICLE TAGS:
Child sponsorship programme, Compassion Latest Blog, Covid-19 News, Prayer