This moment marks an important milestone in Baptist World Aid’s 50-year journey supporting children and young people around the world.  

Children are particularly vulnerable, and we take the responsibility to protect them from harm seriously. After consultation with children and youth in our programs, as well as their parents and local Partner Staff, we’re changing the way we promote Sponsorship to better protect the safety, privacy and dignity of children and young people. 

So, What’s Changing? 

From now on, children and youth awaiting Sponsorship will receive increased protection with a friendly yellow ‘sticker’ covering their faces—online, and at public events. 

The ‘sticker’ will protect the identity of the child until after a person signs up to become a Sponsor. 

This change represents an important step in our ongoing journey towards creating safer communities for children and youth to thrive. 

Why The Change? Why Now? 

Since 1974 our child-focused programs have evolved as we’ve learned and grown. And in 2024, these programs stand out for their excellence and ability to uplift whole communities through best-practice community development.

Today, our Child Sponsorship programs are more effective and impactful than ever. They’re fully accredited by the Australian Government, shaped by a commitment to partnering with local organisations, and being led by communities themselves.   

In practical terms, this idea of being locally-led means listening to children and youth—valuing their experiences, thoughts and insights—and keeping them at the centre of the stories we tell. 

When presented with the idea of protecting the faces of children and youth, online and at events, the feedback from children and youth in our programs was compelling. Here are a few examples: 

‘I like that there is no difference between the children, no matter how they look.’ 

‘Even children with visible disabilities will be treated equally.’  

‘It will help protect children from abuse.’

‘It will keep children safe and protect families and communities.’  

‘This will protect children from child trafficking, being easily beaten up by strangers. It will prevent people easily identifying and recognising us.’ 

What’s Not Changing? 

The way our programs are implemented by our local Christian Partners is not changing. A Sponsor’s connection with one child or youth continues to mean a family—and entire communities—can access the resources needed to move from poverty to fullness, causing a ripple of inter-generational transformation that can end poverty.

The experience of being a Sponsor is also not changing. After signing up as a Sponsor, you’ll continue to receive a physical photo of the child or youth you’re supporting. We know that this sense of personal connection is a valuable part of the mutual flourishing made possible by Sponsorship. 

We’re Part Of A Bigger Story Of Change 

Across the international development sector, many organisations involved in Sponsorship have been implementing innovations aimed at fortifying the safety and upholding the dignity of the young people they serve.  

We’re pleased to add to this important evolution alongside our peers. And we hope you can join us in changing the face of Sponsorship.  

To find out more, click here.