Sponsorship Spotlight Johnna S

My husband, Frank, and I now sponsor three children at Maná de Vida. It started with Esmeralda, who was eight, when we heard about her tragic family story. I underestimated what it meant to a child to have a “Tía” (aunt) until I made my first mission trip. Esmeralda could not stop smiling and hugging me. And I loved it! She would point me out to her friends to show them she now had a Tía, too.

Johnna, Esmeralda, and Scarleth

Next, we heard about Scarleth, a ten-year-old girl who had severe kidney problems and needed surgery. I felt an immediate connection because I had kidney issues and had to have surgery as a child. I could even show her my scar and share how God had healed me. Scarleth is more reserved than Esmeralda but is a quiet delight. I am so happy she and Esmeralda are good friends. Surgery for Scarleth truly meant the difference between life or death. She pulled through and right now is thriving and enjoying life and school.

On our trip in November 2019 for graduation, I interacted a lot with Alfonso, a “child” of 19 who I have been friends with for a while on FB. God kept bringing him to my attention. I learned he’s pursuing an accelerated program where he completes two academic years in one, so he won’t be too old when he graduates. He was a wayward youth who is now an enthusiastic and devoted follower of Jesus.

Johnna, Alfonso, and D’Ann

When I found out he had no “Tía” I immediately offered for Frank and me to become his Tío and Tía. I knew God had been pointing Alfonso out to me, but I did not know why. I certainly had not planned to add a third sponsored child, but once God makes it clear, it is an easy yes.

It is hard to describe in words how much it means to these youth when they have their own sponsors. It is actually humbling to meet them in person and feel the love they have for us. They teach us so much about experiencing joy amid a challenging life and the gift of knowing Jesus and depending on Him.

I waited too long to say yes to sponsoring a child at Maná de Vida. If you’re thinking or praying about it, go for it! It will be an amazing gift you give a child, a gift investing in eternity. You can join me in sponsorship by visiting Tiosforhope.org/sponsorship.