Sponsorship FAQs

Sponsorship: Frequently Asked Questions

Does sponsorship allow me to be matched with an actual child?

It is possible to directly sponsor a needy child. The Sponsor to Child (STC) project is a core activity of HBEF in which a sponsor is assigned a specific student. Under this project, the sponsor commits to pay the child's education for 4 consecutive years (Form 1 to Form 4). The student, on his/her part, commits to work hard and attain their full academic potential.

Can I send letters to my sponsored child through the HBEF office?

Yes, it is ok to send letters through our office. We assist the children by centralizing the sponsor-to-child communication in our office, where they write letters during the school holidays, and we send them to sponsors, as many of them don't have the ability to post or email letters.

How much does it cost to sponsor a child's education?

The average cost of sending a child who meets HBEF criteria to the regular public boarding secondary school in Kenya is equivalent to about 650USD per year (or 55USD per month) although the exact foreign currency may differ slightly depending on the exchange rate.

How long does secondary school education take?

Secondary school education in Kenya takes four years - from Form One to Form Four. The secondary school academic year begins in January and ends in December.

Will I get regular updates and be able to communicate with the child that I sponsor?

You will be able to communicate with your sponsor child through letters, and receive regular updates (including school report cards) on the performance of your child.

Are my contributions tax deductible?

Yes. Creative Visions Foundation on behalf of HBEF issues a tax receipt for all donations received from the US. Unfortunately, no tax deductible arrangements exist for other countries at the moment.

Can I arrange for monthly deductions from my credit card?

Yes it is possible to sign up for a recurring monthly donation. Sign up for a monthly donation.

Can I send gifts to my sponsored child?

It is ok to send gifts to your sponsored child. Send only flat, inexpensive items that can easily fit into a 6"x9" envelope. For example, photos, personalized cards, bookmarks etc. would make good gift ideas. It would be advisable to send gifts via registered mail. This way the post office alerts us when the gift arrives so we can personally pick it up. It is a more guaranteed way of ensuring that your gift arrives plus it takes away the inconvenience of postal delays.

Who can I contact if I have questions about my sponsorship?

For more information or queries related to the sponsorship program kindly write to sponsortochild@hildebackeducationfund.com or call us on 254-020-4442961.