This new normal we are all experiencing has been a challenging process for many. For children living in extreme poverty, the quarantine is an additional challenge on top of the limitations they already face in their daily lives, including a lack of food, places to play, and even love and affection.
Despite the hopelessness that this unprecedented situation could generate, the children in Compassion's Child Sponsorship Program in the Dominican Republic remain full of hope and joy.
The foundation that children have built through their time with Compassion is helping them through this season. Amid the pandemic, the center staff ensures that children and their families all over the country have food, connection with their tutors through virtual classes, and medical support if needed.
“I realize how much I love my center and that’s why one of the first things I want to do after social distancing is over is to run to my center and pray together with my friends there,” says Roanni, 18. “And, of course, I will deeply hug my tutor Daisy, who I love so much.”
Ten-year-old Miranda expresses the desires of many of the children when she says, “When we finally don't have to wear gloves and masks, what I want most is to hug and laugh with my little friends again. I really want to go back to school and to the center, and the moment I return, I will write a letter to my sponsor.”