Beyond Presents: Christmas Gifts Transform Lives
On that beautiful Saturday morning, as we arrived at our Rwandan partnership, we were greeted with a heartwarming sight. The compound was alive with children’s games, the delightful blend of their laughter, and cheers of jubilation.Their joyous shouts created a vibrant chorus as the Christmas gift-giving event unfolded. The entire place was electric with increased excitement and great anticipation as more children, accompanied by their caregivers, streamed in from the community.
The impressive array of gifts proudly adorned the veranda of the building located just a few meters directly across from the gate. The lineup included high-quality mattresses, beautiful clothing, sturdy shoes, bicycles, furniture, and food packages.
In one spot, there was a sewing machine for Souvenir, a young lady who recently completed her tailoring course. In the yard were house-building materials, including heavy bags of cement. Each child waited with anticipation to receive their gift from their generous sponsors. These were not just any gifts; sponsors thoughtfully selected these gifts to address the individual needs of the families of these children.
The local staff had collaborated with children and their guardians to identify the most urgent items needed, ensuring each wish was a game-changer at home. As Christmas approached, the children expressed their wishes to their sponsors.
The anticipation grew as each child’s name was called by the local staff, inviting them to come forward and receive their gifts. The radiant smiles on their faces reflected the joy and hope that the Lahash Christmas Giving Day brings to the children we serve in East Africa.
Agnes, a social worker from our Rwandan partner, remarked, "Days like this are difficult to forget; they remain in our minds and children’s memories as they grow. The Lahash Christmas Giving activity is particularly special, as it allows us to address the needs of children and families more practically."
On the day before the Christmas gift-giving celebration, our Lahash staff visited the home of Fred and Amaris, two remarkable children supported by the Lahash sponsorship program in Rwanda. As we entered their modest dwelling, the simplicity and need that surrounded their family struck us. Sitting on the bare floor, not out of tradition but necessity due to the absence of chairs or a table, we shared stories, creating a connection with Fred, Amaris, and their mother, Uwamalia.
The next day, as the sun illuminated the Christmas event in a golden hue, a moment unfolded that would be etched in Fred and his family’s hearts forever.
When Fred’s name was called, with cautious yet steady steps, he approached the array of gifts. His sponsor had given something very transformative - a table and chairs! As Fred and his family received these precious items, joy lit up their faces like a Christmas tree.
On our next visit to this family a few days later, we were blown away by the change in their house. Tables and chairs filled that once-empty living room! Fred and Amaris were off to school, but their mom greeted us with a smile as bright as sunshine.
This time, her face was beaming with joy. She shared, "My children now have the perfect spot for studying and tackling their homework. I’m more relaxed and will no longer feel embarrassed to invite guests to my home."
Her words vividly illustrated the beauty of the change, not just through the acquisition of furniture, but through the newfound pride and comfort that these gifts brought to their lives. The Lahash Christmas Giving program anchors the lives of children and families across East Africa. Over the years, I have witnessed the far-reaching impact that even the simplest of gifts can have on those in need.
These gifts are much more than material items; they are symbols of love, care, and opportunity—each carefully chosen to meet the specific needs of the recipients.
Imagine the joy of a child receiving a bicycle, enabling them to reach a far-off school with ease, or a family experiencing the warmth and security of a well-lit and refurbished home. Gifts like sewing machines, toolboxes, and welding machines are not just practical; they are launch pads towards self-sufficiency and a brighter future for kids who have completed their vocational training.
As I reflect on the success of the Lahash Christmas events, the real magic lies in the stories of transformation that unfold every year.
Children who once faced significant challenges are now discovering new paths to improved home environments, education, and careers. Families are finding stability and hope. This is the essence of Lahash: sharing the gospel’s Good News of life in Christ and providing holistic care, allowing children and families to build a future full of hope.Tangible gifts at Christmas are one way our community can express God’s love to the children.
As we approach the upcoming Christmas season, I invite you to join us on this remarkable journey. You can make a difference by sponsoring a child, making a donation, or simply spreading the word. Your involvement has the power to create positive change. Let’s work together to make this Christmas a season of joy, hope, and transformation for those who need it most. Your participation is not just a gift; it’s a promise of a better tomorrow for the children we love so dearly in East Africa.
Spread joy and hope this holiday season! Give a gift at Lahash.org/Christmas
The impressive array of gifts proudly adorned the veranda of the building located just a few meters directly across from the gate. The lineup included high-quality mattresses, beautiful clothing, sturdy shoes, bicycles, furniture, and food packages.
In one spot, there was a sewing machine for Souvenir, a young lady who recently completed her tailoring course. In the yard were house-building materials, including heavy bags of cement. Each child waited with anticipation to receive their gift from their generous sponsors. These were not just any gifts; sponsors thoughtfully selected these gifts to address the individual needs of the families of these children.
The local staff had collaborated with children and their guardians to identify the most urgent items needed, ensuring each wish was a game-changer at home. As Christmas approached, the children expressed their wishes to their sponsors.
The anticipation grew as each child’s name was called by the local staff, inviting them to come forward and receive their gifts. The radiant smiles on their faces reflected the joy and hope that the Lahash Christmas Giving Day brings to the children we serve in East Africa.
Agnes, a social worker from our Rwandan partner, remarked, "Days like this are difficult to forget; they remain in our minds and children’s memories as they grow. The Lahash Christmas Giving activity is particularly special, as it allows us to address the needs of children and families more practically."
On the day before the Christmas gift-giving celebration, our Lahash staff visited the home of Fred and Amaris, two remarkable children supported by the Lahash sponsorship program in Rwanda. As we entered their modest dwelling, the simplicity and need that surrounded their family struck us. Sitting on the bare floor, not out of tradition but necessity due to the absence of chairs or a table, we shared stories, creating a connection with Fred, Amaris, and their mother, Uwamalia.
The next day, as the sun illuminated the Christmas event in a golden hue, a moment unfolded that would be etched in Fred and his family’s hearts forever.
When Fred’s name was called, with cautious yet steady steps, he approached the array of gifts. His sponsor had given something very transformative - a table and chairs! As Fred and his family received these precious items, joy lit up their faces like a Christmas tree.
On our next visit to this family a few days later, we were blown away by the change in their house. Tables and chairs filled that once-empty living room! Fred and Amaris were off to school, but their mom greeted us with a smile as bright as sunshine.
This time, her face was beaming with joy. She shared, "My children now have the perfect spot for studying and tackling their homework. I’m more relaxed and will no longer feel embarrassed to invite guests to my home."
Her words vividly illustrated the beauty of the change, not just through the acquisition of furniture, but through the newfound pride and comfort that these gifts brought to their lives. The Lahash Christmas Giving program anchors the lives of children and families across East Africa. Over the years, I have witnessed the far-reaching impact that even the simplest of gifts can have on those in need.
These gifts are much more than material items; they are symbols of love, care, and opportunity—each carefully chosen to meet the specific needs of the recipients.
Imagine the joy of a child receiving a bicycle, enabling them to reach a far-off school with ease, or a family experiencing the warmth and security of a well-lit and refurbished home. Gifts like sewing machines, toolboxes, and welding machines are not just practical; they are launch pads towards self-sufficiency and a brighter future for kids who have completed their vocational training.
As I reflect on the success of the Lahash Christmas events, the real magic lies in the stories of transformation that unfold every year.
Children who once faced significant challenges are now discovering new paths to improved home environments, education, and careers. Families are finding stability and hope. This is the essence of Lahash: sharing the gospel’s Good News of life in Christ and providing holistic care, allowing children and families to build a future full of hope.Tangible gifts at Christmas are one way our community can express God’s love to the children.
As we approach the upcoming Christmas season, I invite you to join us on this remarkable journey. You can make a difference by sponsoring a child, making a donation, or simply spreading the word. Your involvement has the power to create positive change. Let’s work together to make this Christmas a season of joy, hope, and transformation for those who need it most. Your participation is not just a gift; it’s a promise of a better tomorrow for the children we love so dearly in East Africa.
Spread joy and hope this holiday season! Give a gift at Lahash.org/Christmas