[The] biggest mistake in helping undeserved kids is not raising the bar high enough. Children will believe if you believe in them.

Winfrey argues that well-intentioned aid can become patronizing when it assumes disadvantaged (“undeserved”) children cannot meet demanding expectations. The “biggest mistake” is lowering standards out of sympathy, which can quietly communicate low belief in a child’s potential. By contrast, “raising the bar” frames support as empowerment: provide resources, structure, and encouragement while still expecting excellence. The second sentence emphasizes the psychological mechanism—confidence is contagious. When an adult’s belief is credible and consistent, children are more likely to internalize that belief, attempt harder tasks, and persist through setbacks. The quote reflects a broader ethic of dignifying help: combine compassion with high expectations to cultivate agency rather than dependency.