Christmas looked different for the boys at a Monterrey children’s home, but the staff were intent on making sure the celerbations didn’t fall short, even if it was a celebration like they’d never experienced before.
The Mexican government mandated the children who stayed in children’s homes following lockdowns were required to stay through the holidays. This meant staff, caregivers, and children at the children’s home would be experiencing Christmas together. Staff and caregivers took the opportunity to plan a special Christmas celebration.
Sponsorship money, along with additional funds allocated through Back2Back, helped purchase decorations, presents for the children and caregivers, and allowed extra food to be purchased for delicious holiday meals. In early December, the boys kicked off their celebrations by decorating the enormous tree outside in their shared courtyard, and then decorated trees in each of the homes with lights and garland. Once every room was decorated, the boys live-streamed their annual Christmas play! This is generally something they do live up to seven or eight times a season for large crowds in their home, but to keep everyone safe and healthy, they shared it virtually and every child had a special part.
“An important part of celebrating Christmas at the home is helping the boys purchase or make gifts for their extended family members,” shared Jordan McNulty, Back2Back staff. Living in a children’s home means they are often recipients of others’ generosity, but staff want to make sure the boys find joy in giving. The caregivers taught the boys how to knit soft, colorful scarves for their moms, and they worked in the Maker Space, a special lab where they learn how to build and use their hands to create wooden toy cars for their siblings and relatives. The special gifts were sent to their families before Christmas, along with groceries for their Christmas meal.
Mexico celebrates Christmas on Christmas Eve, and the boys enjoyed a special dinner of tamales and opened gifts with their caregivers – where they both gave and received. Christmas day was complete with more delicious, home cooked meals and a church service together, where they were reminded of the true reason for all the festivities.
It was a memorable season of celebrating, even with all its differences, and it was made possible by sponsorship, prayer, and advocacy. Together, this community reflected on the gift of Jesus and that’s why we strive to provide care for today and hope for tomorrow.