Why did the Foundation select the Santa Lucia Children’s Home?
The Santa Lucia Children’s Home is a special place that provides a valuable example. Here, children are placed into family units, each consisting of eight kids, where the older children mentor the younger ones. This structure helps all the children to build close relationships and feel loved. And “volunteer mothers” donate their time over extended periods of time to watch over each family.
The Melaleuca Foundation’s vision is to duplicate this model in other orphanages around the world. Thousands of children can benefit from this loving system. It’s a much healthier solution for the children than just placing them into a big dormitory to save money.
How did Melaleuca become involved with the Santa Lucia Children’s Home?
For the past four years, Melaleuca’s President and CEO Frank VanderSloot has been personally sponsoring this orphanage. Over this time, he’s traveled to Quito several times, and he’s grown to love the children. He knows from first-hand experience that it is well managed, and it will use contributions from the Melaleuca family to help these children to flourish.
babyWill I learn more about the children and how my donation is being used?
Yes. The Melaleuca Foundation will provide regular updates about the Santa Lucia Children’s Home through Leadership in Action, the Melaleuca Country Catalog, this web site and periodic emails. The Foundation will communicate the children’s stories on an ongoing basis, allowing donors to know how they are positively impacting the children’s lives.
How can I make a donation?
You can make either a monthly pledge or a one-time pledge through this website or by calling 1-800-282-3000.
What if I want to change my pledge?
That’s not a problem. You can manage your pledge at the web site at this site or call Melaleuca anytime at 1-800-282-3000 to increase, decrease or cancel your pledge.
How will the monthly pledge work?
Melaleuca will use one of your methods of payment on file with the company. At the web site or on the phone, you can specify the particular account. The transaction will take place on the 5th day of the month.
Will my contribution be tax deductible?
Yes, your pledge is tax deductible for U.S. citizens. It’s a qualifying 501(c)(3) nonprofit recognized by the IRS. If you’re not a U.S. citizen, you’ll want to consult your tax advisor. Melaleuca will send a receipt at year’s end for tax purposes if you’re making a monthly donation. If it’s a one-time pledge, you’ll receive a receipt in the mail within the next month.