The Difference

Several large aid organisations have popularised child sponsorship programs and contributed to a growing culture of continuous giving through monthly financial contributions. The bulk of these popular programs are centred around community development – the child is the relational link between the sponsor and the community, but sponsorship funds are predominantly channelled through the community before they reach the child.

Child sponsorship (community development projects) are essential to the eradication of poverty and to assist communities with basic needs, including: food, health care, water and shelter. However, alongside the major community development projects undertaken by larger aid organisations, there is a strong need for targeted aid programs to address key problem areas like education.

Although the 38degrees Program utilises the monthly contribution model – we differ significantly from the better-known programs of large aid organisations. The 38degrees Program takes a more personal approach to community development, focusing on the need for self-determination, which makes the program both effective and sustainable. This is borne through our requirement for students to maintain high academic standards throughout the duration of the program, which ensures that our educational partners’ funds are used effectively.