Local churches are key to accomplishing our vision of ministering to vulnerable children’s spiritual, physical, and social health. These churches disciple the kids and demonstrate the love of Christ to the children, their families and community. But it’s not just the sponsored kids who benefit. Through GlobalFingerprints, the churches themselves have grown and been empowered to serve their community. Our brothers and sisters in Brazil have experienced this change firsthand.
One year ago, GlobalFingerprints partnered up with a church in Recife, Brazil to reach children in need. Recife’s home state, Pernambuco, witnessed an 8.14% uptick in poverty between 2019 and 2021, the largest increase in the country. As of 2021, 62.9 million Brazilians subsist on no more than 100 USD per month, and over half of those affected are children. During her August 2023 visit to Brazil, which included a stop in Recife, UNICEF executive director Catherine Russell concluded that “‘the children of Brazil face many difficulties, including the impact of climate change, poverty, and lack of access to essential services.’” Glaringly juxtaposed against bright tourist destinations, this urban community is struggling.
In spite of these statistics, Matthew* a local pastor notes that collaborating with GlobalFingeprints his church has already seen significant growth. Matthew reports that his church has grown significantly in membership, strategic engagement, community involvement, and service. Approximately 40% of his church volunteers to serve the sponsored kids, which can include tasks like distributing meals and school supplies, visiting families as a care worker, and mentoring youths.
The growth has been so substantial that they began a church plant in August. Led by the caregiver of a sponsored child, this plant aims to better serve GlobalFingerprints families in their hometown.
Your sponsorship doesn’t just support one child. It revitalizes sister churches with needed ministry resources and the encouragement that Christians worldwide are there for them. Want to join the movement? Sponsor a child today online or via our new app!
*Names changed for security