Question 1

What is Passion Center for Children?

Accepted Answer

Passion Center for Children is a nonprofit organization based out of Malawi, Africa. Learn more about our mission and vision here!

Question 2

When did Passion Center for Children start?

Accepted Answer

The Passion Center for Children began caring for its first 30 orphans in September 2004.

Question 3

Who founded Passion Center for Children?

Accepted Answer

The Passion Center for Children was founded by F. Eric and Julie Von Barnau Sythoff. Learn more about our leadership team here.

Question 4

What is unique about the Passion Center for Children in its approach to humanitarian aid?

Accepted Answer

Our approach to humanitarian aid is two-fold:   First, we strongly believe that only a robust, multi-faceted approach can break the continuing cycles of death, disease, and despair. By working through multiple grace-centered ministries, we are continuing to see lasting change take root in communities.   Secondly, we are convinced that unless we address each person's core spiritual need for a new life in Christ, all efforts in food security, education improvement, health care advancement, caring for orphans, etc. will not bring about real, lasting change for the person, nor their community.

Question 5

Where is Malawi located?

Accepted Answer

Malawi is a landlocked country located in southeast Africa. It is bordered by Zambia, Tanzania, and Mozambique.

Question 6

What is the nation's population?

Accepted Answer

The current population of  Malawi is approximately 18.6 million (2019).

Question 7

What are the official languages spoken in Malawi?

Accepted Answer

The official language of Malawi is Chichewa, spoken by over 50% of the population, although English, Chinyanja, Chiyao, and Chitumbuka are also spoken by a large percentage of people.

Question 8

What is the prevailing religion in Malawi?

Accepted Answer

20-25% of the population identifies as Muslim primarily from the Yao tribe, 60-65% identify with Christianity (Protestant and Catholicism), while 10-20% adhere to elements of African Tradition Religion (ATR), spiritualism, and ancestral veneration.

Question 9

How much of my donation goes directly to aid?

Accepted Answer

93% of all donations go directly to providing aid in Malawi.

Question 10

Is my donation tax-deductible?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Passion Center for Children is a registered nonprofit with 501(c)(3) status. All donations to our organization are tax-deductible. ​

Question 11

How can I view/download my contribution statement?

Accepted Answer

You can view or download your contribution statement at anytime through our portal. View our Self-Service Guide here!

Question 12

Are there other ways to support Passion Center for Children?

Accepted Answer

Yes! In addition to becoming a prayer partner, donor, sponsor, or joining us in Malawi, another easy way to support us year-round is through AmazonSmile. Visit smile.amazon.com and select 'Passion Center for Children Inc.' as your designated charity. AmazonSmile will donate 0.5% of your purchase amount to our organization.

Question 13

How do I become a sponsor?

Accepted Answer

You can view our available sponsorships here on our website!

Question 14

How much does a sponsorship cost?

Accepted Answer

Our sponsorships range from $25-$84/month and vary based on the type of sponsorship selected.   We currently offer 5 types of sponsorships through the following ministries:   Passion Kids (children who reside at the Passion Center or are enrolled in our village program), Champions Club (children with special needs), Child Headed Households, Education ( students attending college/vocational school), and Infant Rescue Project.

Question 15

What does my sponsorship provide?

Accepted Answer

Your monthly sponsorship ensures food, clothing, medical aid, education, and grace-filled care for a child in need.

Question 16

Can I communicate with my sponsored child?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We encourage all sponsors to write letters and send photos to their sponsored children. Simply log in to your account here, and in the "My Profile" tab, click 'Inbox'. You can also mail your letter directly to your sponsored child or send your letter to our Malawi address at P.O. Box 1435 Zomba, Malawi (ATTN: Your Child's Name).    Please note that all letters are hand delivered by our ministry coordinators and may take some time to reach your sponsored child. Please allow 3-4 weeks to receive correspondence.

Question 17

What happens if my sponsored child is no longer enrolled in the program?

Accepted Answer

If your sponsored child is no longer enrolled in our program, you will be notified by one of our coordinators.

Question 18

Can I convert multiple sponsorships to a single billing transaction?

Accepted Answer

Yes! An admin would be happy to make this adjustment for you. Contact us to inquire.

Question 19

Can I bring/send items to my sponsored child?

Accepted Answer

All items are given at the discretion of the Passion Center staff members. We kindly ask that you inquire with a staff member before providing any items to your sponsored child or any other children.

Question 20

Am I able to visit my sponsored child during my trip to Malawi?

Accepted Answer

Although we cannot guarantee that any sponsor will be able to visit their sponsored child, many of our sponsors have had the wonderful opportunity of meeting their sponsored child throughout the course of their trip.

Question 21

I'm interested in joining a trip. What are the next steps?

Accepted Answer

We would love to have you! You can view our Join A Trip page for more details on our current trip dates and submit an application here. Have more questions? Email us to find out more information or to join an informational meeting.

Question 22

What does a typical team trip look like?

Accepted Answer

Typically, our team trips run for 14-days (10-days in-country and 2-days of traveling on each end), but trip lengths may be flexible. While some of our trips have a singular focus (e.g., medical, pastoral), the main aim of our mission trips is to reinforce our ministries and refresh our in-country staff. This may be through hosting conferences, outreaches, teaching, Bible training, and more.

Question 23

How do I raise support for my trip?

Accepted Answer

If you have chosen to raise support for your trip, we recommend that you create a personal fundraising campaign and use our U.S. mailing address (P.O. Box 99986, Lakewood,WA, 98486) for all check donations.   View our personal fundraising guide here

Question 24

What should I bring on my trip?

Accepted Answer

Our recommended packing list can be found here.

Question 25

What should I include in a support letter?

Accepted Answer

You can download a support letter outline here!

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions