Fifteen years ago, when Tesema was four years old, he enrolled in the CCFC sponsorship program. It changed his life.

"Before this program, I hadn't sufficient money for education. From this program, I received many things, like books, pens, and clothing. All of these things have brought me to complete my education, through high school through to college. Especially in college, I needed to make several payments every month, and for all of these I got from CCFC and my generous supporter. For all of this, I would like to thank this organization in the name of Jesus Christ," says Tesema.

CCFC sponsorship allowed Tesema and a girl from Edolla, Ethiopia, to complete their education. They are now certified teachers.

Both Maria and Tesema will be employed at the Edolla KG School, which was constructed through CCFC funding. Recruitment of qualified teachers is a huge need in Edolla.

Two new teachers will be a tremendous boost to the school. They will set an example of what can be achieved through learning and through the CCFC sponsorship program.

Children in poor communities can see for themselves that through dedication and perseverance there is hope for the future.

But the children we help see sponsorship as more than just the provision of money. For Tesema's family, they couldn't thank CCFC enough. One way to show appreciation was to invite CCFC staff to their home for lunch.

Seated in their traditional Ethiopian grass-covered cottage, over a meal of barley porridge with milk, Tesema's parents and CCFC staff discussed Tesema's future as a teacher. They also talked about what the sponsorship program meant for the family.

The family considers the CCFC sponsorship a blessing. They couldn't imagine their lives without the constant contact and support from the program - both from their Canadian sponsor and local staff.

They are proud of their son, who not only successfully trained as a teacher, but who is upheld in the community as an example of what can be achieved through perseverance.

Tesema's father told CCFC: "I have a very small plot of land, and I would never have been able to support his education up to the 10th grade, let alone the college level. It is because of our sponsor, and the program, that he is able to get this opportunity. The program staff were like a part of our family. Any assistance that Tesema needed, they were always there to help."

Tesema tells us: "By teaching, I will start my life and help my father's life. Now we haven't many problems, we will use our lives to serve. I will assist my parents, as I will have a salary. We can use this together. I can help other students to become more educated, as well as my brothers and sisters. I will struggle for our community to become educated. This is my vision."