Charities for children often ask for our help. Through various appeals and advertisements, they remind us that many millions of children live in poverty worldwide.

The figures are shocking. According to UNICEF more than 21,000 children die every day because of the conditions of poverty. At the same time more than 600 million children lack adequate shelter and nearly 300 million have no health care. The problems are huge. Can the work of Western charities for children really make a difference in the lives of children in poverty?

The answer is yes, they can.

It’s true that the imbalance between rich and poor nations needs to be addressed globally. Politicians are currently working toward finding international solutions. Meanwhile, charities for children work at "ground level" to make a difference, bringing hope and support where it is most needed. These charities can’t make world poverty disappear. But they can and do relieve the burden of day-to-day poverty in the lives of countless children worldwide.

Children who were once sick, malnourished and without expectations find their lives transformed by the influence of charities for children. For the first time, children receive proper nourishment. Children have the security of safe shelter and the benefit of clean drinking water. Children are given regular health checks, including immunizations.

By the work of charities, children also receive an education, which means the chance to escape the poverty trap. An education followed by training opportunities means that children can be successful adults with fulfilling lives. Instead of the old sense of deprivation and helplessness, these children know they can achieve almost anything. And many do, training to be doctors or teachers so that they can give back to society in turn.

One of the most effective ways to make a difference in the lives of children in poverty is through child sponsorship. Several charities for children have sponsorship programs operating in the world’s poorest countries. These programs are tried and tested over many years, and the charities work closely with local communities for the best results in the lives of children.

A would-be charity supporter of charities for children in the United States may ask: "How can I be sure my money is spent in the best way?" With child sponsorship, they are in no doubt that their generosity is worthwhile to make a difference in the lives of children in poverty. First, they are linked to a particular child, who will be the recipient of their sponsorship support. Then, the sponsor builds a relationship with that child through letters, photographs and progress reports. The sponsor has the satisfaction of knowing that each monthly contribution can make a difference by ensuring the child receives nourishment, health care, clean water, and the all-important education.

If the charity for children is a Christian charity, the sponsor also has the assurance that the child is learning about Jesus Christ and how the love of God will transform a person’s life forever. Christian charities for children are aware that poverty can be spiritual as well as physical. They can make a difference in the lives of children in poverty by teaching children about the love of God so that they can learn about trust, hope and self-worth.

All over the world, charities for children work tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of millions of children in poverty. Sponsors are "ordinary people," doing their best for others. All they ask is the support of other "ordinary people" who are willing to help the poor and vulnerable children in poverty.