Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I sponsor a child?
Sponsoring a child provides direct support to some of the most vulnerable children affected by conflict and hardship. It’s a meaningful way to help a child access essentials like food, education, healthcare, and a sense of stability and support.
How are children selected for sponsorship?
WHD works with trusted local partners who assess vulnerable communities and identify eligible children. To prevent discrimination or preferential treatment, our local partners post eligibility requirements publicly. Selection is based on:
- Age (under 18 at time of enrolment)
- Loss of one or both parents due to the March 2025 violence in Western Syria
- Economic need (income level, access to services, and living conditions)
We ensure selection is non-discriminatory and inclusive regardless of religion, gender, political conviction, or disability.
Will I be the only sponsor for the child?
Yes, each child has one dedicated sponsor. However, if you’re contributing less than the full sponsorship amount, your contribution will be part of a group sponsorship model that supports the child collectively.
How is my sponsorship money used?
Your sponsorship supports the child through their caregiver, covering daily needs such as food, healthcare, education, and other essentials. For partial or general donations, WHD pools funds to support community-wide initiatives, like overdue rent assistance, medical procedures, or family rehabilitation mini-projects.
What tangible benefits does my sponsored child receive?
Your donation will help the orphan’s caregiver provide the sponsored child with support in three main areas:
- Nutrition and basic living needs
- Access to education
- Medical care and emotional wellbeing support
How long does my sponsorship last?
Your sponsorship continues as long as you maintain your contributions and the child remains eligible, usually until the age of 18. If circumstances change, we’ll notify you and offer alternatives.
Can I donate anonymously?
Yes, you may choose to remain anonymous. Whether you donate directly to the child or through WHD, we ensure your preferences are respected.
Can I visit my sponsored child?
At this time, in-person visits are not permitted due to safety, privacy, and safeguarding policies. Our priority is protecting the wellbeing of the children and their families, especially in high-risk or post-conflict regions.
Can I send gifts to my sponsored child?
We appreciate the thought, but we generally discourage sending physical gifts due to customs restrictions, delivery challenges, and fairness across communities. Instead, you can send financial gifts or cards. If you’re interested, contact our Sponsor Care team for guidance on appropriate giving.
What if I need to cancel my sponsorship?
We understand circumstances can change. You can pause or cancel your sponsorship at any time by logging into your account and setting a request to cancel sponsorship, then our team will contact you to finalize the procedure, or you can alternatively do so by contacting us directly. We’ll ensure the child continues to receive support through group funding or a new sponsor.
Do children know who is sponsoring them?
Yes. Once sponsorship is established, the child and their caregiver are informed of your support. If you choose to write to the child, they will know your first name only (unless you agree otherwise) and are encouraged to reply. If you prefer to remain anonymous, we will fully respect your wishes and withhold any personal information or details.
Can WHD send the sponsorship funds on my behalf?
You may choose to donate anonymously or sponsor a specific child, in which case you will receive information about them. Donations can be sent directly to the child or given to WHD for transfer. If WHD handles the transfer, a set percentage of the amount (to be specified) will be delivered to the child, with the remainder covering processing and administrative costs. You will receive an email confirming receipt of your donation, or you may confirm directly with the child.
Can I contact or write to my sponsored child?
Yes, please do! We strongly encourage it! Children love hearing from their sponsors and cherish their support. After you decide on sponsorship, you’ll receive the child’s contact details to send messages or letters or have a casual call under the supervision of their caregiver. If you need support, you can contact us at ******* and our Sponsor Care team can assist with updated contact information.
Can I share about my sponsored child on social media?
Yes, but please do so responsibly. Child protection and safety are very important to us. If you choose to share about your sponsored child on social media or elsewhere, please, never share their name, surname, exact location, face, or detailed family information. Always prioritise their privacy.
What happens if my sponsored child leaves the programme?
If a child moves or leaves the programme, WHD will offer you the opportunity to sponsor another child that still needs a hand. Your support can continue making an impact without interruption
What’s an appropriate amount to give?
The full sponsorship is
€50/month, but any amount between
20–50 € is welcome. If you’re unable to cover the full amount, you’ll be part of a group sponsorship model, where multiple sponsors contribute together to reach the required amount to support a child. Please consider adding a small contribution (€3.50) to cover transfer, security, and currency fees.
Can I choose the child I want to sponsor?
Yes, you may select a child from our database if you’d like to sponsor a particular age or gender, or one from a specific region. Alternatively, we can match you with a child based on the greatest need.
Are there updates on the child’s progress?
Yes, sponsors receive periodic updates including photos, short reports, and letters when possible. We aim to keep you informed of your sponsored child’s wellbeing and achievements through their caregiver.
How are emergencies or crises handled?
In case of emergencies—natural disasters, conflict escalation, or health crises—WHD works with local partners to prioritise children’s safety and essential needs. You’ll be informed if your sponsored child is affected.
How does the sponsorship process work?
You contact us, and we respond to arrange a meeting where we explain all the necessary details. In a confidential discussion, we inform you about children in need. Once you decide to sponsor, we provide you with the child’s details and you make your first donation. After the donation is sent and received by the child’s caregiver, you send us a receipt, which we record for our documentation.
