One sponsor’s story of meeting her sponsored child…

Today’s guest post is from Mary Kate Richardson, of NewSpring Church in South Carolina.  She tells us of the blessing of meeting her sponsored child, Saretu, during a 410 Bridge service trip in the community of Ereri, Kenya.  Enjoy Mary Kate’s story…

I knew when I went to Kenya I was going to be able to meet my sponsor child, Saretu. I knew it would amazing, but I didn’t realize how amazing it would be. I will never forget the moment I met her. I had just finished praying for some people in the medical clinic and Jack Silange came and got me. He walked me outside and there she was. Saretu and I started walking and talking until we found a place to sit. We just talked and talked. She told me “I’ve seen your pictures and letters.” That right there was enough. In that moment those simple words meant so much. I knew she was getting my stuff but to be able to actually hear her tell me that myself was incredible.

The days I got to spend with Saretu were so special. She took me to class three to meet her teacher. Her teacher went on and on about how great of a student Saretu was. In that moment I kind of felt like a proud mother. That sounds crazy because obviously she’ s not my child, but it just made me so happy to see her doing so well.  While I was there I also was able to meet her family. Wow, that was such a blessing. Her mother was so sweet and caring and language was not even a barrier. And her little 2 year old sister was the cutest thing ever.

I was dreading the day I had to leave Saretu but the day finally came. She came up to me crying saying “don’t leave Mary Kate.” Seeing her standing there hugging me and crying I lost it. I started crying too. So, we stood there crying and hugging together for a solid five minutes, then it was time for me to depart. I was so sad to leave sweet Saretu but I can not wait to see her again!

sponsor-pic-Mary-Kate-Richardson
Mary Kate and Saretu in Ereri, Kenya

Visiting your sponsored child is truly the experience of a lifetime!  If you’d like to be a part of this kind of life-change, click here to learn more about our sponsorship program and see how you may one day have an opportunity like this!

Share This

Share on Facebook
Share on Twitter
Share on Linkdin
Share on Pinterest

More Stories

Life in Kiu Community Two Years After Graduation

Two years ago, our partnership with the Kiu community officially came to an end—but the story didn’t stop there. In fact, it was just the beginning of a new chapter of independence, resilience, and flourishing. When we returned for a recent visit, we were deeply encouraged to see how the seeds planted during our eight-year journey together are continuing to bear fruit.

Here are just a few glimpses into the lives of the people who make Kiu such a remarkable place…

Read More »

La Cabaña School: A Celebration of Dignity

In the vibrant, close-knit community of Rancho Viejo, Guatemala, joy was overflowing as students, teachers, parents, and community leaders came together to celebrate a moment they had long prayed for—the inauguration of new bathrooms at La Cabaña School.

This wasn’t just about new facilities. It was a celebration of dignity restored, learning uninterrupted, and a future filled with possibility.

Read More »

El Mirador: More Than a Renovated School

In the heart of Vista Hermosa, Guatemala, something extraordinary is unfolding.

Recently, the community of El Mirador gathered with joyful hearts to celebrate the inauguration of the newly renovated Escuela Oficial Rural Mixta El Mirador. But what we’re celebrating goes far beyond new walls or updated facilities—we’re witnessing a transformation that’s physical, spiritual, and deeply communal.

Read More »

Subscribe

Get more articles and updates like this directly in your email inbox!