Though gift-giving is just a small piece of the larger Christmas picture, we recognise that the gifts given are not simply things for the children we serve. They are treasures, cherished and well-loved. Because for some children, it’s the only gift they’ll receive all year.
The Christmas gifts given every year vary from country to country because the children have different needs based on their ages and circumstances. Because of this, our local church partners take special care in choosing what the children and young adults receive, making sure every one of them knows they are treasured, seen and loved.
Here’s a peek at the types of gifts the child you sponsor may receive this year…
A good night’s sleep
Many children living in remote areas of Thailand don’t have access to safe and protective bedding. That’s why staff collected warm blankets, bedding and protective tents for these children’s Christmas gifts.
Confidence in their appearance
Clothing is one of the most common gifts for children at Christmas. Not only is it a daily living essential, but it also brings a smile to the face of children who love to show off their new outfit at the Compassion centre! Just like these teens in Colombia did…
Seven-year-old Alexandra from Peru was overjoyed with her gift of clothing: “When I found my shoes and my dress, I felt like God heard my prayers.”
Tools for learning
Staff will often identify practical needs, including school supplies, that can bless children. This student in Rwanda was given a new backpack for his studies.
Food for health
At 7-year-old Rejoice’s Compassion centre in Ghana, the children received beautiful new clothes the previous year. Because the children’s clothes were still in good condition and most families were struggling to provide enough food for their children each day, the church decided to give food supplies for a Christmas present.
What they need
Sometimes children receive vouchers so they can purchase a gift of their own choosing with the guidance of the staff and their family. Little Maria in the Philippines went shopping with her mom and got a sleeping pad, some hair bands, a shirt and a necklace.
“Last year from the centre, I bought a school uniform with my Christmas gift. It made me happy to receive the uniform. My favourite subject at school is science,” says Juan in Indonesia.
Toys for development
Learning to play is crucial to every child’s socio-emotional development. These kiddos in Burkina Faso couldn’t wait to play with their new toys from their sponsors!
In Peru, mothers in our Survival Programme were overjoyed to have a special gift that will help them bond with their little ones.
A Christmas to remember
For Ian, in Kenya, celebrating Christmas is a new concept. Cared for by his Aunt Philgona, the family couldn’t afford to buy gifts. “Celebrating Christmas is a very recent thing for us … The constant struggle to survive always overshadowed it,” says Philgona.
“I really enjoy the Christmas celebrations,” Ian says. “I get the opportunity to play with my friends, sing carols and thank God for his love and care. On top of that, I get gifts as well.”
Ian (centre) and his friends celebrating Christmas at their Compassion centre.
When you give a Christmas gift, you will give your sponsored child a special Christmas to remember!
Give a Christmas Gift Today