Over the years of working with clients, I’ve learned that Christmas can bring back painful memories of exploitation. For many, the holidays are a time of increased exploitation. When people are off of work, demand for commercial sex increases, and victims of human trafficking suffer all the more.
Our clients have often expressed to me, “Christmas has always been for other people, not for me.” For them, the idea of being safe and welcome at a family dinner table, a gift exchange, or a holiday gathering is unimaginable—those moments are reserved for someone else’s story.
That’s why our Christmas parties form such a redemptive experience.
Every year, we open our doors wide, welcoming both youth and adult clients into spaces filled with warmth and joy. Local churches generously donate gifts, we cater a hearty meal, and together we sing, laugh, and create new memories.
When I look around the room and see people belly-laughing, enjoying one another, and finding meaningful friendships, I’m reminded of how much we all need redemption.
The good news of Christmas is that Jesus Christ came to the earth in all humility, to “lift us out of the miry clay and set our feet on the rock” (Psalm 40:2). He has called each one of us by name and offered us a future and hope. (Isaiah 43:1, Jeremiah 29:11)
Wherever you are this holiday season, we pray that you experience the hope of Jesus and his comforting embrace.
To those of you who have partnered with us—through giving, praying, and supporting—you have made this work possible. Your generosity has created spaces for healing and hope, not only during Christmas but throughout the year. Thank you for being a vital part of this redemptive story.
May God bless you richly this season.
