Ray and Sandra Smith had been sponsoring 11 year old Mesert for around two years. They had formed a close relationship with the whole family, writing and receiving letters almost monthly. Like many sponsors, they wondered what life was really like for the family in Ethiopia.

The Smiths were touched by the tearful welcome they received from Meseret's family. Sponsorship had provided agricultural training for the parents and opportunities to increase the family income. Meseret and her five brothers benefited from education, school materials and access to healthcare.

They also saw how their sponsorship had helped to make a difference in the community. A clinic had been opened to provide surgery, maternal health and HIV/AIDS education. Community members had been trained in crop diversification for year-round harvests and seedlings were growing in locally staffed plant nurseries to produce precious income.

Meseret was visibly excited and dressed in her best clothes for the visit with her hair tightly braided. After a home-grown lunch of barley, vegetables and fermented goat's milk, the Smiths gave out presents, including balloons, toys and clothes, to each member of the family.

In return, Ray was given a ceremonial spear and Sandra received a ceremonial wrap, as well as the jug that had contained the goat's milk.

Visiting the new school building was another highlight for the Smiths. Girls are particularly encouraged to attend, and there is even room for mature aged students to return to school.

The classrooms were packed with children eager to meet their Australian guests, and in the junior class they were invited to take a seat and join the lesson.

"Seeing this was a very special bonus our World Vision sponsorship has given us," says Sandra. "Not only did our dollar give Meseret a far better life, but it helped to provide much-needed services for a whole region."