Today I wanted to share a very special post with you all but before I do, I want to recognize that it is Veterans Day and first say a special thank you to those who serve our country. We honor your service today are are grateful for your sacrifices.
I have been trying to find the right time to talk about this organization and with the holidays approaching, I decided now was the time. Originally I had planned this to launch our annual Season of Giving series but realized I needed to tell you about this now so that any gifts could arrive in time for Christmas.
First let me say that there are always wonderful opportunities to help close to home (this year more than ever) but I share this organization today because I believe donating to them at the holidays really can make a difference for a child.
Several years ago our family became involved with The Mission near Tijuana, Mexico. The Mission provides support for 450 children; children that are either parentless or have been removed from a dangerous home. The Mission cares for 100% of their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. Our oldest son traveled to serve at the Mission for two summers and as a result of his experience our family has committed to the monthly financial support of Camila (shown with him on left below). Camila is 12 years old and a full-time resident at the Mission.
I wanted to share a little more about this organization today as this is a special opportunity to help provide Christmas for the children there. Since we know first hand the good this organization is doing for these kids, I feel comfortable recommending donations, either in gifts or in financial support. The Mission has locations in Mexico, Nicaragua and most recently opened in Romania, you can read more here.
One of the residents shared this quote about Christmas in a recent email they sent out:
I had never experienced a Christmas morning, until I came to The Mission with my siblings when I was twelve years old. Seeing the room full of presents and lots of kid’s faces lighting up, was something I will never forget. Tangible love was in the room.
On Christmas Eve there will be a Christmas party with a piñata, and a birthday cake for Jesus, the kids even get new Christmas pajamas before bed and awake to gifts in the morning– thanks to donations and support.
If you feel called to help these children this Christmas there are several ways to do so. My understanding is that this year has been particularly hard on the organization financially, as much of their support comes from the churches that serve there, so the current restrictions due to Covid-19 have created a hardship. Here is how you can help:
1–Donate directly to the Mission’s Christmas fund to provide gifts for the children there.
2–Send physical gifts (best if for a specific, sponsored child. You can sponsor a child monthly as we do, see the children here. )
3. Choose a gift from their Amazon registry. I love this since there is so much to select from (in all price ranges) and it makes it so easy to order a gift. You can also send gift cards to the organization at the address below.
The Mission PO Box 360 Potrero, CA 91963
Any of these options will help them provide Christmas for these children. I often feel a bit overwhelmed at the thought of how much need there is in the world, but am reminded of the phrase ‘start with one’ and it helps reassure me that helping one child makes a difference.
In closing, I know this year is hard in ways unlike any other year has been. If you can’t donate financially please pray for the children and those that serve there as that matters most.
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Amy, thanks so much for sharing this! IMHO, Christmas is for celebrating the birth of Christ and then all about the kids! To make at least one child’s day is just the best!
Amy,
What a wonderful mission! Brava to your son for all of his efforts over those summers – you can tell he enjoyed his work and the kids him, and he was making a positive difference in a corner of the world! As is your whole family for your continued commitment to Camila. Good job. It will be nice for you all to watch her grow up and thrive. I applaud you all. And, the apple certainly doesn’t fall far from the tree as you son favors you immensely. Spitting. Image.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Cheers!
Susan
P.S. Would be fun to get an update on Camilla here from time to time if there is news to share – we will root for her, as well. And pray.