Written by Michelle Bickle, Project Orphan’s Child Sponsor

When you sponsor a child, you help mend wounds and give a child a chance in life! Since 2017, Michelle Bickle has been providing stable, loving support by sponsoring two of the Project Orphans' kids, Shila and Simon. "I knew that if I could make the world a little better, Project Orphans was the place I could have a direct impact on a child's life," said Michelle.

Over the years, Michelle, Simon, and Shila have built their relationship through letters, report cards, and photos. Michelle has even made the trek to Uganda to meet Simon and Shila—an experience we absolutely love to watch! At Project Orphans, we believe it is essential to nurture a relational experience between sponsors and the child(ren) they support! The kids in our sponsorship program have had so many inconsistencies in their life. Child sponsors demonstrate to our children what unconditional love, support, and encouragement should look like.

Bickle's last visit brought her and Shila even closer together. Shila was in so much pain, could not eat, and was rapidly losing weight. Her sickness became so severe that she was rushed to the hospital and immediately received a surgical removal of the appendix. Shila was recovering from surgery at Suubi Home, where she and Michelle spent quality time together.

"Once you go and visit, you get an even deeper understanding of what the kids are up against daily," said Michelle. "One thing PO does well—is being transparent about the kids' struggles. They don't over inflate or underestimate, and they make it a priority to keep you informed!”

During her trip, Michelle watched Shila champion the complications of her recovery. She was in awe at how Shila was so brave and in so much peace. "It's an unexpected blessing when serving the hearts of others serves you back," shared Michelle. "There is so much reward in sponsoring a child and being part of a life that needs you!”

A final note from Michelle, "Child sponsorship is just one of the many ways to make a difference through Project Orphans. Whatever your passion might be, there's a perfect fit for you to join the mission of Project Orphans and make a difference."

We’re so excited to share that Project Orphans will soon be introducing a brand new communication tool that will connect sponsors to their child(ren) in a whole new way. We are so grateful to all our child sponsors who stand by the child(ren) they support! To elevate this relational experience between the Project Orphan kids and their sponsors, we are excited to be taking steps towards an incredible new way to be more connected than ever before! We can't wait to share with you all the details this December.