How two people have positively impacted 20 lives

More than 40 years ago, while the world was sporting mood rings, singing “Love Will Keep Us Together,” and being collectively terrified by Jaws, a couple in the historic city of Nelson, B.C., was marking a milestone.

“Our family was complete by then, so we figured the natural thing to do was to sponsor children, and so we did,” says Frances Welwood, a mother-of-two, who along with her husband, Ron, was anxious to help at a time when child sponsorship was in its infancy.

For the two librarians, the decision has made perfect sense. “We appreciate the historical and social background you get from communicating with someone across the world. You [form] an emotional attachment,” she explains. The Welwoods appreciate the Christian Children’s Fund of Canada’s (CCFC) commitment to providing a personal touch with a donor-relations team with whom she can connect.

Through the years, the photos of CCFC-sponsored children on the Welwood’s fridge changed, but their commitment hasn’t wavered. There was Khadija from Kenya, Valeria (pictured above) from Brazil, Lariza from Paraguay — more than 20 children altogether. “The pictures have always been on the fridge, on the mantles, as they are in most families,” Frances explains. “They’ve been there throughout our children’s lives, so our boys are still interested.” Even today, the Welwood’s adult sons ask about the sponsored children when they visit Nelson.

It’s little surprise that these retired archivists, with hearts for helping others, kept, recorded and shared with CCFC the years of correspondence with their sponsored children. The stack of letters, photos and hand-drawings overflows with memories of little ones fishing with friends, visiting relatives and treasuring monetary gifts meant for new sneakers and school supplies.

“You’re helping a child be a child,” says Frances. “If you can help a child enjoy their childhood, their family and take pride in [their] country, that’s the biggest thing.”

About Children Believe

Children Believe works globally to empower children to dream fearlessly, stand up for what they believe in — and be heard. For 60+ years, we’ve brought together brave young dreamers, caring supporters and partners, and unabashed idealists. Together, we’re driven by a common belief: creating access to education — inside and outside of classrooms — is the most powerful tool children can use to change their world.