Knowledge Base
Frequently Asked Questions.
Transparent answers to your questions about our mission, sponsorship, and how your contributions create lasting change.
Sponsorship
How long does a sponsorship last?
For as long as you choose to give. Orphans are eligible from birth until age 17. You can cancel or adjust at any time.
Can I choose which country my sponsored child is from?
Yes, for the full sponsorship and family sponsorship, you can choose: Iraq, Pakistan, Yemen, or East Africa. Or let us match you with the child who needs support most.
What is the difference between full sponsorship and co-sponsorship?
Full sponsorship (£40/month) matches you with a specific child. You receive their profile, updates, and can send letters and gifts. Co-sponsorship (£20/month) pools your donation with others to support orphans on the waiting list. No personal match, but direct impact.
Can I sponsor more than one child or family?
Yes. Each sponsorship is managed separately with individual updates.
Can I switch between sponsorship types?
Yes. Upgrade, downgrade, or switch any time by contacting our team.
How long does the matching process take?
Typically within two weeks after your payment is set up. Timeframes may vary by country.
Can I choose the age or gender of my sponsored child?
You can express a preference and we will do our best to accommodate it.
What happens when my sponsored child turns 17?
We will notify you and offer to match you with a new child.
What happens if my sponsored child’s circumstances change?
We will notify you and offer to match you with a new child.
How are the children selected for the program?
Our local field teams work with community leaders to identify the most vulnerable orphans who lack basic necessities and educational access.
Updates & Communication
How often will I receive updates on the child?
Credit and debit cards, bank transfers, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, cheques, and postal orders. You can also set up sponsorship by phone.
Can I send letters or gifts to my sponsored child?
Yes. For birthdays or any occasions. We translate and personally deliver them.
Can I visit my sponsored child?
Visits can be arranged under strict safeguarding protocols and with sufficient notice. Please contact our support team to discuss the application process for a field visit.
Do co-sponsors receive updates?
Not individual child updates, but you can follow NRF’s impact through newsletters, emails, and social media.
Donations & Payments
What payment methods do you accept?
Credit and debit cards, bank transfers, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, cheques, and postal orders. You can also set up sponsorship by phone.
Can I pay annually instead of monthly?
Yes. Full Sponsorship: £480/year. Co-Sponsorship: £240/year. Family Sponsorship: £1,200/year.
What is Gift Aid and how does it help?
If you are a UK taxpayer, Gift Aid increases your donation by 25% at no extra cost to you. You will complete a declaration during sign-up.
What if I can no longer afford my sponsorship?
You can switch to a lower tier or cancel at any time via the portal or by calling our office. Contact us and we will help find the best option.
Can I cancel my monthly donation?
Yes, at any time via our portal with no penalty or obligation.
Orphan Charity Fund
What is the Orphan Charity Fund?
Full and family sponsors receive updates every 6 to 12 months with photographs and progress reports.
How is it different from sponsorship?
Sponsorship provides structured monthly support. Orphan Charity addresses specific needs that fall outside regular sponsorship.
Can I specify how my donation is used?
The fund is pooled across regions, but if you have a preference such as education or medical support, let us know and we will do our best.
Trust & Transparency
How can I be sure my donation is used properly?
NRF is registered with the Charity Commission (No. 1190503) and the Fundraising Regulator. All donations are tracked, and we provide project reports, sponsorship updates, and regular communications. We provide audited annual reports and regular impact stories. Our field operations are strictly monitored to ensure every penny reaches its intended destination.
How does NRF cover its expenses?
A small portion of donations goes towards administration and fundraising. For every £1 received, around 11p goes towards raising further funds and around 9p goes towards delivering your support and admin charges. Full details are on our How We Cover Our Expenses page.