Why Brazil? Don't we have orphans here?
Yes, we do have orphans here. We also have many orphanages and children’s homes. However, the plight of orphaned, abandoned, abused, and neglected children in Brazil is bleak. The laws protecting children are also much less stringent than those we have here. Most state run homes provide les than adequate facilities. Few provide a “home-like” atmosphere.
Why should I support this cause?
The ministry of the van Opstal’s and Projeto Lar Feliz is deserving of your support. Not only does this ministry care for the real and felt needs of children, it also provides the answer for their spiritual, eternal need. The answer for this greatest problem is the hope found in Jesus Christ. For more on this issue follow the link above to our “Know God” page
Are my financial gifts tax-deductible?
Lar Feliz USA Foundation is a 501c3 certified tax exempt organization. All financial gifts are tax-deductible. A receipt for charitable donation will be issued to you at the end of every calender year.
How is my financial contribution used?
Your contribution is wired directly to the ministry of Projeto Lar Feliz. Your gift is used to impact the lives of children.
I'm not a Christian. Can I still get involved?
Though we base our organization on the principles found in The Word of God, The Bible, there are no religious requirements for anyone wishing to involve themselves in, or contribute to, the work of Lar Feliz USA. If you would like to know more, see our What We Believe page.
Is Lar Feliz USA Foundation connected to one specific church or denomination?
Our foundation is not connected to any one church or denomination. Though we base our organization on the principles found in The Word of God, The Bible, there are no religious requirements for anyone wishing to involve themselves in, or contribute to, the work of Lar Feliz USA.
Why do none of the videos and photos of the children show their faces?
We are prohibited by Brazilian law from using the faces of the children in our fund-raising activities. We try to practice due diligence to prevent the identity of any of the children from being revealed either on our website or in any of our print media.
Why can't the Brazilian government or people support these children?
The cities and towns that send children to Projeto Lar Feliz do provide for a portion of their necessary financial support. However, this amount does not fully provide for the level of care that these children receive at Lar Feliz. Funding is not only needed for the daily needs of the children but to also supply upkeep of facilities and vehicles, as well as the salaries of the over 40 staff members. Paul and Jill van Opstal do not receive any salary or financial compensation from Projeto Lar Feliz. Their support comes in the form of missionary support from generous donors.
