Christmas Wish

They say “it takes a village.” This Christmas, an entire community came together to support one homeless family. It all started with two teenagers, whose only wish for Christmas was to spend it with their mom and siblings. Since last Christmas, the kids were separated and placed into foster care. The family is now well on the road to being reunified permanently, but the week before Christmas the kids realized they weren’t able to be together for the holiday. That’s when they made their Christmas wish, and that’s where the community stepped in.

Thanks to the Clarion Hotel in Aberdeen, East Coast Fire Protection in Hanover, Chick-Fil-A in Abingdon, Oak Grove Baptist Church, plus some generous individuals, the childrens’ wishes were granted… and then some! The family enjoyed warm, comfortable accommodations, yummy food, a Christmas tree, and presents galore. Best of all – they spent Christmas together as a family.

One donor commented that his gift felt insignificant in light of the great need. Others weren’t even aware of the situation when they offered their services. None of it was coincidence. Upon “opening the door,” and being willing to participate, we allowed God to work in our lives and in the lives of this family.

Each person’s generosity was key to meeting this family’s need. If we are willing to give of ourselves, together we can accomplish great things.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to this great gift.