My story isn’t much different than most.

I watched years of commercials from way back in the Sally Struthers days, thinking I’d love to sponsor a child, and yet never following through.

That is until a few years ago. I saw an ad that tore my heart out and I knew it was time.

I called and asked for a girl 5 years of age from the Philippines. The sponsorship package arrived and in it was a beautiful picture of a little girl, nicknamed “Inday.” There was a complete report on her life and living environment.

My excitement grew and I wrote immediately. Over time, I learned so much of her and her family — their way of life and their gratefulness for having us as their sponsor. Every letter thanked us for being a part of their family with details of the gifts they had received from us. Some letters even included pictures.

Sponsorship is priceless.

As time passed, I found myself drawn to other children on the ChildFund website who needed sponsors. I would read about them and wished someone would come along and help them, too. I didn’t realize that that someone would be me.

A very pretty girl, with eyes so sad, held me captivated. I read her story and my heart ached for her. This little girl, Ginalyn, recently lost her father, and her mother is trying to survive on an average of $33 a month.

Again, I knew I had to be her sponsor.

I recalculated my budget and decided I didn’t need a cup of coffee from the big franchises a few times a week, nor did I need my magazine subscriptions.Where there’s a will, there’s a way.

We have welcomed two families into ours and hope to add more over time. This year we also sent enough money so both families can purchase their own gifts for each other.

I know we’re making a difference, one step at a time…. Can you make a difference, too?

Sponsor a child, it is heartfelt for all.