What does sponsorship cost?

The cost of sponsoring a child or widow is only $30 a month. If you would like to co-sponsor a child or a widow with another individual, you can choose this option for $15 per month each.

How do I become a sponsor of a child or widow?

Its simple. You can do so on the BGCHM Website and use your credit card, email us at info@bgchm.org or you can write to BGCHM at PO Box 612, Russellville, AR 72802. Either way, just specify whether you would like to sponsor a boy, girl or widow, or if you have no preference and would like for our staff to make the selection for you. We will send you a photo and brief bio.

How does BGCHM use the money I donate?

The funds you provide through sponsorship are used to feed, house, clothe and educate each child. Most of the widows do not require education. Each child and widow has an account in his or her name and any money left (usually a very small amount) goes into their personal account. They receive that money when it is time to leave Boys and Girls Christian Home. BGCHM also helps with wedding expenses, if needed.

What percentage of donations goes to the children and widows?

Nearly 100 percent of your donation goes to the Home and is used to feed, clothe, house and educate the children and widows living there, including staff and teachers' salaries. A very small amount goes to administrative costs and neither the US nor the Indian Board Members are paid.

What do I receive for my sponsorship?

Besides the joy and satisfaction of supporting a child or widow who needs your help, as a sponsor you will also have a personal connection to that child or widow through a photo and a biographical sketch. If desired, the sponsor can request more information. You may also wish to correspond with your child or widow. Sponsors with an interest in visiting the Home in India should contact Brad Palmer - info@bgchm.org.

Does BGCHM only help Christian children and widows?

The answer is an emphatic 'No'! The children and widows are taken solely on the basis of their need. However, BGCHM is a Christian organization.

Can I provide a special donation for a Christmas gift for my sponsored child/widow?

We suggest that if a sponsor cares to, they can send a gift of $20 to the child or widow at Christmas. This money is put into a Christmas Fund and a boy, girl or widow is given gifts of equal value. The staff is also treated to Christmas gifts. The Christmas celebration at BGCHM begins on the first day of December and concludes with a huge feast on the first of January. The children take part in pageants, carol singing and special programs for the village.

Can I send gifts to my sponsored child/widow?

We do not encourage sending gifts to children or widows from America or any other country outside of India. That is because most gifts disappear in Customs and never make it to their recipients. If you would like to have a child receive a gift you can request that to be done in India. All you need to do is send extra money and a suggestion for the purchase of a gift and the BGCHM staff will take care of it.

Can I contact my sponsored child or widow?

Yes! We encourage sponsors to write letters from time to time, telling about family members, sending pictures, etc. Because English letters must be translated into Marathi or Hindi so the children can read them, we ask that you send letters through our office in the US, from where they are sent to India. Return letters from children and widows need to be translated into English as well.

If I choose not to become a sponsor, but to give a general donation, how will it be used?

The undesignated gift will go into the General Fund of Boys and Girls Christian Home, where it will be used where it is most needed. Those funds will be used to provide clothing, school supplies, education, special training for those who are ready to leave BGCHM, maintenance, weddings and various and sundry needs. Some of those funds also go into the salaries of our employees in India.

Can I visit BGCHM and my sponsored child/widow?

Yes! Each year we schedule a trip to India and there is usually room for four to six people to go and visit the Home. Travel conditions in India can be difficult for some and the Home is not located near one of India's major cities. However, it could be for you one of the most thrilling trips of your lifetime. Contact BGCHM if you are interested.

What is the function of the American Board of Directors and the Indian Board?

The US Board of Directors oversees the ministry in India and raises the funds for the operation of Boys and Girls Christian Home. The Indian Board is responsible for supervising and controlling the Home's operations in India. They are charged with dispensing the funds that are sent for the maintenance and care of the children and widows at the Home. They also establish policy and provide guidance to the Home, and ensure that BGCHM is meeting the requirements of the Indian government. Members of both boards are volunteers and are not paid for their efforts.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

Yes! BGCHM is a 501(c)(3) non-proft organization. BGCHM's financial statements are available to the public upon request.