A Joyful Christmas for the Children at Our Centers
What a joyful season it has been! This December, the children at our centers have experienced the true meaning of Christmas through heartwarming celebrations, acts of kindness, and moments of shared love and community. We are thrilled to share some highlights from this special time with you.
In Rwanda, the children kicked off the festivities with a Christmas program filled with carols, nativity plays, and vibrant dances that showcased their rich culture. The joy on their faces, as they received gifts—from books and school supplies to new clothes—was priceless. Each gift reminded them of the generosity of sponsors like you, who make these moments possible.
Our newest center joined the holiday spirit with a special Christmas party that included games, storytelling, and a shared meal. For many of these children, it was their first time experiencing such a celebration, and their excitement was contagious. Seeing them surrounded by love and care during this season was a beautiful testament to the impact of your support.
Over in Colombia, the children decorated their center with handmade ornaments and enjoyed a traditional Christmas feast. It was heartening to see their creativity and teamwork as they crafted decorations and prepared performances to share the Christmas story. These celebrations brought together children, staff, and the community, fostering a spirit of unity and hope.
We embraced the season with meaningful activities that celebrated the Christmas spirit and fostered joy among all participants. One of the highlights was the Novena, where traditional prayers and songs brought families together in faith and unity. This cherished cultural tradition was made even more special with the support of the national police, who actively participated and encouraged community involvement.
Families also enjoyed a traditional Christmas meal, providing an opportunity to come together, share stories, and celebrate in a warm, communal setting. The most exciting moment was the Gift Distribution. Children and adolescents were surprised with thoughtful gifts, including groceries for each family, school kits, sets of clothing and shoes, and toys for the kids. The joy and gratitude on their faces were truly heartwarming, and your generous support made it all possible.
These celebrations fostered increased family interaction, strengthening their bonds and promoting unity. As the activities provided a space for joy, connection, and reflection, participants experienced an improvement in mood and emotional well-being. Moreover, meaningful memories were created that will continue to inspire hope and reinforce family ties for years.