Meet Leonard
Aged 7, Colombia
Leonard lives with his mum, stepfather, his sister and step-grandmother. His stepfather is unemployed, but Leonard’s own father does contribute towards the expenses and his mother sells homemade ice cream. However, the low income does not provide for all their basic needs. The family house is built with cement blocks and a tin roof, and there is no access to drinking water.
By being part of the Stand by Me sponsorship programme Leonard can attend the Emmanuel Care Centre, where with support he can receive academic help, nutritious meals, and health checks.
Leonard’s favourite subject is math. He enjoys school and finds his teachers very kind. He is a cheerful boy who enjoys games of football, painting and helping his mum make the homemade ice cream which she sells. Leonard enjoys eating rice with chicken.
Where Leonard lives
The gulf between the haves and the have-nots in Colombia is alarming. Decades of civil war and conflict have resulted in a country plagued by violence and murder. For six million children deep in poverty, a lack of educational opportunities and malnutrition is an everyday reality. Children have severe health issues worsened due to not being able to afford medical treatment. Many children suffer from psychological problems as a result of neglect, abuse and violence experienced in their homes.
We established a care centre in 2015 to support families through educational provision, meals, counselling, training and housing support. Every day, our children come to our care centre eager to learn, play and receive emotional support.
Why Stand by Me?
How your donation is used
88% of your donation will be used to directly provide the best care possible for Leonard. We'll use the remaining 12% to support the work of Stand by Me and find a sponsor for the next child.
What you receive
When you sponsor Leonard you will receive a pack in the post with his story and photo. Every year you will receive an update about his/her progress, a new photo and at least one communication from him/her.
Real relationship
We know our kids love to receive your letters and write back so we encourage you to write as many letters as you like, along with photos and birthday gifts to develop a genuine relationship.
Not sure yet?
Ask us anything. We’ve helped sponsors change 1000s of kids’ lives, and we know it can be a big decision. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
