Frequently asked questions
This is where your journey with Bali Family Foundation begins.
Find answers to all your questions - what’s included in our monthly parcels, what to bring with you to Bali to donate, how to make sponsorship payments and donations, where you can keep abreast of what's going on in the villages...
We're glad you're here to be part of our story.
What is included in a monthly food & essentials parcel?
Our monthly parcels include the basic food items required by families, like rice, noodles and eggs, as well as essential personal hygiene items. The cost differs by location due to availability and transport costs. A small parcel costs $45 p/m and a large parcel in the north is $72.50, and in the east is $90.
Details of the content of parcels is available on the Files tab of our Facebook page.
What does it cost to support a child's education?
Costs vary depending on the school year your child is in. Education begins at kindy which costs $30 p/m .
The school year runs from July to June and is structured across three tiers - primary, middle, and high school. Annual school fees, including lunch, range from approx. $160 - $320 per year. In the first year of each tier a new uniform is also required at an additional cost of approx. $120. Fees need to be paid in full in the June before the school year commences.
What should I bring to Bali to donate?
There are many items which are either better quality or cheaper if purchased in Australia that are greatly needed in the villages. Basic medical and health supplies, full cream milk powder, and iodised salt to name a few. And of course your good quality used clothes and linen are always appreciated!
A full list of needed items can be found on the Files tab of our Facebook page.
Can I visit a village?
If you’re visiting Bali, you’re welcome to spend time with your sponsored families and visit the villages. There are many activities you might like to take part in, including running games with food prizes, distributing some extra rice, or visiting the school and kindy with some treats. Many members say it is the best day of their holiday!
If your schedule is tight and you can't fit in a visit, you can still bring donations from home and we’ll happily organise collection from your accommodation.
What is the Rice Run and the Bottles to Blessings Club?
Each month, we collect donations for our Rice Run, which supports up to an additional 325 families who are not regularly sponsored but need help covering their basic food needs. One 10kg bag of rice costs $16 AUD (no more than one take-away lunch) and can help feed a family for an entire month.
The Bottles to Blessings Club is the name we give to our wonderful supporters who collect and recycle bottles and cans, donating the proceeds to the Rice Run. Contributions to the Rice Run can be made ad hoc, whenever you are able, or set up as regular donations, which help us to plan and are greatly appreciated.
Are there any rules that members have to abide by?
We ask our members to do three simple things. 1. Help out whenever you can, 2. Don't post photos of our families publicly, so we can protect their privacy and dignity (that's why we've used AI images on this site), and 3. Be kind - to one another and to our team.
We are all here to do the best we can for the villages we support. Every person involved — members, sponsors, administrators, and our team on the ground — plays a vital role in making this work.
What if I can't commit to the amount of a full food parcel?
Families are often supported by teams of sponsors. This means you can contribute from as little as $10 p/m, even though food parcels can cost up to $90 p/m.
Can I give presents to my sponsor family?
Yes, you absolutely can. While there is no obligation, many members choose to give their sponsored families birthday cakes, a small amount of cash at Christmas, or specific items such as clothes, toys, or blankets when they visit. Some members have given bicycles to their sponsored children, or regularly provide art supplies to feed a passion. You can always ask us to find out what your family needs or would value.
How do I make sponsorship or other payments?
Payments are made to an Indonesian bank account, and we’ve made it easy for first-time donors. You can use either a Wise account or the Remitly app, both of which are simple and secure.
Detailed instructions are available on the Files tab of our Facebook page.
Why do you prioritise food assistance instead of transferring cash direct to bank accounts?
Our food-first approach exists for clear and practical reasons. Within some communities, there are known social challenges, including alcohol and gambling issues. In these circumstances, cash assistance can be ineffective and, in some cases, harmful. Our local team works closely with families to reduce these risks and prioritise food security. It also ensures there is no risk of people losing government help for healthcare.
How can I keep my eye on what is happening in the villages?
We share photos from the villages and regular updates on our families, including monthly activity reports, in our members-only Facebook group. This way members can stay connected while we protect the privacy and dignity of those we support.
Please join the Facebook group to see more.
Where are the villages located?
Our northern village is called Tinga Tinga and is approx. 4 hours from the south of Bali. We recommend considering an overnight stay in the area to ensure you have enough time to visit and enjoy the experience.
Our eastern village is Pengalon and the journey there typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours from the south, which can be comfortably undertaken as a day trip.
When you plan to visit we will send detailed information on addresses and what to expect.
What is BFF's commitment to governance and transparency?
The Bali Family Foundation is firmly committed to never charging administration fees, prioritising food-first support to protect families, ensuring all member donations are distributed as intended, and maintaining clear reporting and full transparency across all activities.
Fondasi Keluarga Bali is a registered charity (Yayasan) in Indonesia.
The Yayasan Certificate can be found on the Files tab of our Facebook page.
Have more questions? Send them through our contact form and we’ll be in touch soon.
Hope Begins With Action
"The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention"
― Oscar Wilde
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