Paraguay, located in the central region of South America, gained its independence from Spain in 1811. Over the last decade, the country has experienced some political instability. However, since the overthrow of a 35-year military dictatorship in 1989, Paraguay has held relatively free and regular presidential elections. Most of the population of Paraguay is concentrated in the southern part of the country. A large percentage of the people are farmers, and most are only able to raise just enough to survive. Paraguay’s economic struggles have been blamed on political uncertainty, corruption, internal and external debt, and poor infrastructure. The country faces environmental challenges from deforestation, the loss of wetlands, and water pollution. It also does not have adequate systems for waste disposal, which causes health risks for many people living in the cities.

The Children of Promise program in Paraguay, called Niños de Promesa, began in 2004. The ministry serves children in six congregations of the Church of God. Many children in these communities live in poverty, and their families have a difficult time providing for their basic needs. Homes are very small, and families live in crowded conditions. Children of Promise Program Director Sandra Greve, the program committees, and volunteers from the churches help sponsored children receive food, education, and health care. They also make sure the children are discipled and experience the love of Jesus in the community of the church. All of the sponsored children are active in their local church congregations.

Your sponsorship helps bring nutrition, education, health care, discipleship, and wholeness to a child in Paraguay.