Children's Homes FAQ
Where do the children at the orphanage come from and how were they selected?
Nearly all of the children at ELI's orphanages are full orphans - both parents have either passed away or abandoned the child. About 80% were orphaned by AIDS. Most of the children come from rural areas, as opposed to the city. They were not street children. The majority were living with extended family members who did not have the means to feed, clothe, or educate them. Family or community members filled out applications on behalf of the children and an ELI selection committee chose the direst cases to be accepted into the orphanage.
What ages are the children?
Children between the ages of 3 and 9 were accepted into the home. They will now stay at the orphanage until they are grown.
Are these children available for adoption?
The orphanage is now the legal guardian of all the children. ELI feels it is important for the children to know that the orphanage is their permanent home and the staff and other children are their permanent family. There is no possibility for them to be taken away or adopted.
Where do the children go to school?
Each orphanage has a private Christian school within walking distance where all of the children from the homes attend. Two of the schools attended by the orphans are operated by ELI, and the third is a partner school.
How can I sponsor a child at the orphanage or make a donation to the orphanage?
Please click the "Giving Opportunities" link or email our Sponsorship Coordinator at the address below for more information on orphan sponsorships.
Do any of the children have AIDS?
Some of the children are HIV positive and are being provided with the necessary treatment to enable them to have a long and healthy life.
sponsorships@empoweringlives.org