December 16, 2011: For the abused and unwanted children who arrive at SOS Children’s Villages, celebrating Christmas for the first time in the warm embrace of their new SOS families often provides a sense of security they’ve never had. For other children, reuniting with their newly strengthened biological families is the best gift.  

Pedro enjoying life at SOS Quetzaltenango, Guatemala

Ten-year-old Pedro came to the SOS Children's Village at Quetzaltenango, Guatamala, in 2009. Last year marked the first Christmas with his SOS family.

“There were so many things to do,” he relates excitedly, describing the holiday. “Like when my SOS Mother Vilma and my brothers and sisters and I sang with the other SOS families at the SOS fellowship, and the trip we made to Cerro del Baúl, and definitely the tamales and eggnog my mother prepared.” What did he like most about Christmas? “My SOS Mother's food and playing and going to bed late.”

Every Christmas and New Year, SOS Mother, Vilma, puts all her love into preparing special meals. Last year was no exception. After dinner, Pedro and his siblings opened their presents, watched TV together, and went to bed feeling loved and valued.

In Costa Rica, there are 4 SOS Villages providing loving homes to children in need.

More than a year ago, Leonardo arrived at SOS Children's Village in Santa Ana, Costa Rica, after being beaten by his mother. Back then, he was a fearful, impolite, impulsive little boy whose academic performance was just average.

With the patient, persistent support of his SOS Mother and siblings, Leonardo graduated from elementary school with outstanding grades. Most important, he learned values like respect, tolerance, and camaraderie. He is now a warm, cooperative child with a desire for success.

While Leonardo was working hard in school, SOS worked equally hard with local child authorities to strengthen Leonardo’s biological family with the hope of reunifying him with his parents. Making this happen -- for Leonardo and SOS children around the globe -- requires first teaching the family good parenting skills and helping them secure a livelihood that will allow them to care properly for their offspring.

December 2010 brought great happiness to Leonardo. At his elementary school graduation he walked side by side with his parents to receive his certificate. That night, he rested in his mother's arms, sharing with her his best Christmas present ever. Was it the mini-diploma or being back with his family? Hard to say!

You can help provide the Gift of Love to children in need. Make a donation today or consider sponsoring a child.