Today was the day… we held a Christmas party at the Haven this morning (I first wrote about Hannah’s home here).
Twelve of us arrived at the home in a bus (hired by the company), and it was filled with toys, clothes, food and other gifts for the children and their carers. Everything was donated by the staff. One of my colleagues dressed up as Santa and handed out gifts, while the rest of us played with the kids.
The childrens faces when they saw Father Christmas was just beautiful to see. It was also great to see how excited the older kids got when they realised the clothes in the parcels were brand new - with labels still on them. Once all the presents were opened the kids started putting their new clothes on. Mercy ended up with a little sundress on and socks, and was about to put on her new panties when the one carer stopped her.
The little kids didn’t really understand what was happening, but enjoyed the attention and the unwrapping of the gifts. Some of the little ones were too afraid and wary to come close to us, it was all just too much for them as they’re still a bit traumatised.
The response from the carers were amazing too. We gave them each a small bonus with some of the money we’d collected. They were thrilled to receive their envelopes, and once they’d opened them and realised what was inside; they all came back inside together and got down on their knees to thank us. It was very humbling. Those ladies do an awesome job just for a safe place to stay and food (they don’t get paid).
Rose (10) started writing in her new secret diary as soon as she opened the gifts.
Leanne playing with Arthur. He’s the cutest little boy with such a gorgeous laugh.
Monalisa’s smile. It was amazing to see her smile and laugh today. She is the little one I wrote about 2 weeks ago.
Tumelo (or Jiminy Cricket as he’s also known as) was clinging onto his new toy.
I have to end this by quoting from the thank-you letter that Hannah wrote us…
If we can prevent one abused, molested and abandoned child from being cheated out of their childhood our lives shall not be in vain.
