We don’t recommend that you communicate with your sponsored child via social media.

We do understand that social media platforms are widely accessible across the world. However, there are risks involved for both the supporter and their sponsored child. For example, Compassion is unable to assist with the translation process or provide assurance of the identity of the person who is making contact.

Communication outside of Compassion avenues opens up the possibility of information falling into the wrong hands or being used inappropriately. There is also a chance that a supporter may be asked for additional money or resources, perhaps from someone other than the sponsored child themselves. Without Compassion’s input and guidance, it is difficult to determine whether these requests are genuine and what the true motivation is behind them.

Compassion has an obligation to create a safe environment for every child and supporter. We always need to ensure child protection, privacy and security of information. That's why we strongly discourage supporters from contacting their sponsored child or their sponsored child's family outside of Compassion avenues. Sponsored children and their families are also advised against communication with supporters outside of letters.

You can:

• Write a letter to your sponsored child
• Read more about our commitment to privacy and protection in our Privacy Policy
• Learn more about why we advise against social media contact with sponsored children