Alberto, an 11-year-old Filipino boy, lived for many years with his family in a cramped three- by four-metre house that served as bedroom, living room, and kitchen.

Daily life was a struggle. Alberto’s father earned very little as a rickshaw driver. Whenever someone was sick, Alberto’s mother had to borrow money to take them to a doctor. Birthdays came and went because there was rarely extra money for a celebration.

"Life was hard and I had no dreams," Alberto recalls. Fortunately, World Vision child sponsorship changed their lives for the better.

Today, Alberto has the school supplies he needs to attend class. If he gets sick, he has access to proper care. When a typhoon destroyed the roof of the family house, it was replaced. Alberto’s mother, Zenaida, also took part in training sessions that are giving her confidence and helping her better provide for her children.

Today, Alberto feels free to dream of a better future. He is earning honours at school and believes that through education, he will help his family escape poverty. Alberto hopes to become a teacher, have his own house, build one for his parents, and provide for them in their old age.

"I am so thankful for my sponsor and to World Vision who is helping me achieve my dreams," he says as he wipes away tears. "Some day, I will also help other children achieve their own dreams as what World Vision has done to me."