Our donors and volunteers go above and beyond for our kids every Christmas. Generous donations, lots of parties, and delicious goodies make the season extra special. It’s awesome to see the smiles and joy on our kids’ faces when the High Rollers show up or when they receive a special present. Many of the Boys and Girls Country kids come from families who couldn’t afford to do much during the holidays or parents who had to work throughout the break.
One of our new children had an extraordinary Christmas this year. Before coming to live at BGC, Mia had never received a personal Christmas or birthday gift. Her family was so impoverished that they would choose items in their home and wrap them so the kids had something to open. Mia never had a Christmas tree or met Santa.
Mia’s oldest brother came to Boys and Girls Country first. He was so happy to live here that he begged his grandma to come let his younger sister come live here too. The children feel happy and safe after a life of moving from state to state and being in and out foster care with Child Protective Services. Their mother has serious mental health issues and has been homeless at times. They have never had a stable father figure.
We are thrilled to be able to give these kids the love, care, and stability they so desperately need. Mia’s teaching parents shared with us:
Mia is so excited for all that has happened since being here at BGC. She has had real birthday parties and presents picked out just for her (not items found in her house). The other girls in the cottage are surprised that she has never had a gift before and are learning to appreciate all they have had. It is amazing to see the girls protect each other when they find out someone has had so much less than they have.
Without the support of our community, we can’t be a home for kids like Mia and her brother. Thank you for giving them a joyful Christmas and a place to call home all year.
If you didn’t get a chance to make your year-end donation, why not start the new year off right? Your gift in any amount provides a home for Mia and kids just like her. Thank you!
Here’s Mia with her teaching parents. To respect her privacy we have changed Mia’s name and hidden her face.