Meet Santiago

Aged 11, Colombia

Santiago lives with his grandparents. His father lives next door with his partner. They bring water home from the river. Santiago’s father does not have steady work available as a bricklayer so Santiago's grandfather helps to provide for him. 

Santiago was accepted into our care centre sponsorship programme where he can enjoy nutritious meals and times with friends, medical care and help with his education. 

Santiago loves school and enjoys learning new words. He loves playing football. Santiago is good at telling stories. He attends the local Christian Church with his dad and his partner. 




Where Santiago 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. 

 

How your donation is used

92% of your donation will be used to directly provide the best care possible for Santiago. We’ll use the remaining 8% to support the work of Stand by Me and find a sponsor for the next child.

What you receive

When you sponsor Santiago 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.

Stand by... almost there...