Child sponsoring?

Question

I was wondering if anyone had any sites/connections with physically sending packages to children in need. Years ago, a family member and I would send school supplies and clothing to a little girl in Russia, but now it seems that it is only money donations... besides Opeartion Christmas Child, does anyone know where you can physicaly send boxes of clothing, books etc? Thanks

Answer 1

I would recommend going to www.oprah.com I'm positive that if you search her site you will find a good charity organization.

Answer 2

You can also call your local domestic violence organization, DHS (to donate to foster kids), soup kitchens, homeless shelters, etc.  If you started with the DV organization, they can lead you to all the others.

I used to put together care packages for women coming into the shelter, and for rape victims.  You could put together care packages for kids coming into the shelter, or you can just ask for a wish list of what they need and go shopping.

Answer 3

As sad as this is to say please be careful in sending packages sometimes the government will confiscate them and the needy family will NEVER receive your donation.

Only deal with reputable agencies you have researched.

Our church has a ministry in Guatemala and we are sponsoring a seven year old so that she will be able to attend school. Can you imagine not having the RIGHT to attend school? Next spring the hubby and I are considering on visiting Guatemala while doing volunteer work and we will be able to meet the family. I will personally be bringing things with me for her so that I KNOW she will receive them.

Answer 4

If your just sending gift packages then I would recommend contacting UNICEF or going to their site Unicef.org and checkout the NGO's they are affiliated with.

If your sending money I would recommend the same but I personally would visit a country and meet the families and deal directly with them. It cuts out the middlemen fees which are unavoidable for any organization. I sponsor several children in Guatemala just to help them survive the difficult times their country and family are going through and it has been very rewarding.    

A lot of sites you see that are about sponsoring an individual child is a little miss leading. The child does benefit from your donation but most of it goes to building up the community(like schools and medical care facilities). It not bad just a little misleading and again middlemen fees.

Edit: In the US the best ran organization is the Salvation Army. They turn lives around and salaries are capped as well as most employees being volunteers.

Answer 5

http://www.knitforkids.com/  Knit sweaters for children in need.

Google search:  packages "needy children"

http://www.helpingnow.org/kidskare.html  "Kids' Kare Package Program"

Help Ill and Needy Children by donating 'goodies', toys,

stickers, clothes, collectibles, etc.

They also accept cars, but I believe these are sold to provide funds for these care packages.

Answer 6

SEND THEM TO ME, I RUN A CHARITY ORGANIZATION HERE ON LONG ISLAND. I HAVE BEEN DOING IT FOR 10 YEARS+ I GIVE EVERYTHING A WAY FOR FREE AT A LOCAL CHURCH. SERIOUSLY.. PEOPLE IN OUR COUNRTY NEED LOTS OF HELP.