FAQs
What sets you apart from other sponsorship programs?
Our sponsorship program is small and so we really know our students. It allows our tutors to build relationships with not only the students but even their families; our tutoring ministry reaches beyond the classroom. Finally, our tutors are Christians and because of this they try to see the kids through the eyes of Jesus, which is often drastically differs from the local norm.
How many children are in a tutoring class?
We try to keep elementary school kids to 10 or less; for the older kids our goal is 6 or less. We also provide private tutoring to one or two children who are really struggling.
Why do all of the kids need tutoring?
Children in Muxara grow up speaking Makua (a local tribal language) but the schools teach in Portuguese (the national language) and students are expected to understand Portuguese without being taught. If that wasn’t difficult enough, classroom sizes are usually 40-60 kids! Teachers are overwhelmed and often just spend the class (3-4 hours) either lecturing or having the entire class repeat phrases. If a child needs help with homework, their parents are often unable to help because they are uneducated and/or illiterate.
Who do you tutor?
We currently tutor from preschool to 10th grade. Preschooler don’t actually go to public school, but we work with them each day to teach them Portuguese through play, games and crafts. It’s also important to note, that while we are a Christian organization, we do not discriminate against anyone because of their religious beliefs.
How much does sponsorship cost?
Sponsorship is $35 a month or $420 a year. Donations can be set up through your online bill pay, through our donation page or by mailing checks to James 1:27 Mission Friend - PO Box 197 - Harbert, MI 49115. Make checks payable to James 1:27 and note Kihavo in the memo line.
How long is my Sponsorship commitment?
That’s up to you. Ideally you would make yearlong commitments, but we also understand that life happens, and you may need to pause or stop your donations.
Why do you pool my support with that of other supporters?
Pooling support is what allows us to give children the most consistency in their education and we are also able to run a tutoring program that is open to the community.