While we originally posted this story in June, we still talk about it in the office. As sponsors, it is important for you to know that as much as your sponsored child is grateful for your help, his or her parents are just as thankful.

We've often said that child sponsorship is a ministry that multiplies: you change a child's life, and he goes on to change others' lives. That impact extends to the child's parents, too, but rarely do we receive a tangible example of that effect.

A few months ago, one of our Kenyan child development center (CDC) directors was approached by an extremely grateful mother of two young boys. Vincent and Elias are registered in the Mission of Mercy sponsorship program. Joyce wanted to tell the project director that she was extremely thankful for the good things God has done for her children through Mission of Mercy’s local CDC.

Joyce went on to describe the positive impact Mission of Mercy has had on her children. Both Vincent and Elias are more healthy and active due to the nutritious meals provided to the boys at the CDC. Joyce was also extremely grateful for the Bible teaching each Saturday at the CDC. Because of these lessons, Joyce said Vincent and Elias are learning more about Jesus Christ. Joyce said that “her heart was touched” by the love and care that each child receives at the CDC.

But in addition to words, Joyce expressed her gratitude to Mission of Mercy in deeds: she gathered twenty bundles of firewood to be used for cooking the meals at the child development center. This was a huge undertaking that most likely took several weeks of work. And it blessed the project immensely, as a staff member could now spend more time with the children and less time gathering firewood.

Joyce also said that she prays daily that Mission of Mercy and the project would prosper. This is the story of one parent -- just think of the thousands of parents who have prayed for help or fretted over their child's needs, wondering if they'll be able to provide. And then because of your help, Mission of Mercy is able to move into a community and with God's help, change lives.

Parents around the world rejoice at seeing their children’s needs met. It is a blessing that multiplies and continues. Thank you for your generosity. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!