Stories

To many Hong Kong people, Georgia is a country that many seldom heard of. "Before sponsoring Elene, I had zero idea about Georgia," sponsor Pinky says.

Georgia is located in the Europe and Central Asia region. It is 60 times the size of Hong Kong but with a population of only 60 percent of that of Hong Kong. As a lower-middle income country, the average income of Georgians is one-tenth of Hong Kong. Since the independence from Soviet rule in the 1990s, Georgia's social development and economy have remained weak, leaving many in dire poverty.

Pinky started her sponsorship of Elene in 2009. Besides paying sponsorship fees, Pinky writes to Elene frequently.

Pinky and her daughter enjoy communicating with Elene. She thinks that spiritual support and encouragement are significant to children. She finds great joy and is deeply touched through the close relationship they have built.

Pinky's daughter and Elene are of similar age. She recalls, "My daughter did not care much about my sponsorship in the beginning, but then she started reading Elene's letters with me, and inserted her own drawings in the reply letters. They both are at similar age and like dancing, so my daughter wants to get to know Elene too."

In their correspondence, Pinky and Elene share about different topics. "We usually talk about our daily lives, and she helped me learn about her country and culture. For example, Georgia is known for their artisan bread, and many families bake their own bread. I sometimes share my travel experience and tell Elene about other cultures and traditions. I encourage her to study hard for a greater future, and one day she could also travel around the world and experience it herself," says Pinky.

Their frequent communications and care for each other had inspired staff at World Vision Georgia, and a short video of Elene's life was recorded for Pinky. "Seeing her holding the little gifts and photographs that I sent her with bright smiles, I feel so touched and glad. Though I only have made a small contribution, I am very thankful that it has helped improve her life and enabled her to go to school," expresses Pinky with gratefulness.

"We have established a close relationship over the years, and it is an unexpected gift. ¡¥Elene, I believe that education could shape one's future. Wish you the very best on your studies and prosperous lives of you and your family! I will always love you and support you!'" says Pinky.

Sharing love has beautified Pinky and Elene's world!