Neither White, nor Blue

It’s Christmastime, and while you’re bundling up for the cold, here in Arequipa we’re just getting into summer. The girls just finished their school year yesterday, and are now officially on summer vacation. It takes some time to get used to a warm summertime Christmas.

Another challenge here is that we work with girls who have been separated from their families for various reasons. In almost every case, that makes for a sad and lonely time of year. We’ve had lots of help this year from good-hearted people who have helped to keep things positive.

One group brought a ton of used clothing that they had gathered for our girls. A ton!

And this group brought fun, snacks, elves, more fun, games and smiles!

This group of co-workers got together to bless our girls with panetón (a Christmas sweet bread), chocolate milk, and a wrapped gift for each girl!

This group brought office supplies and hygiene items. Lots of stuff we need!

A family group brought a very nice lunch for the girls, and even the Christmas tablecloths. They also brought a wrapped gift for each girl, and a brand new video projector and laptop!

And finally, a group from the USA raised money to buy a bag of gifts for each girl, and also paid for the annual trip to the beach in February. The gift bags will be used as beach bags!

Yeah, the beach. Remember…. it’s summertime here! So while it’s certain that we won’t see a white Christmas, we won’t be having a blue Christmas, either. Thanks to all who have brought so many blessings and smiles this year. Thank you for reaching out and thinking about others. It’s what Christmas is all about: “For God so loved the world, that He gave…”