A Christmas miracle for a family in Namibia
Is there anything more magical than a child’s joy on Christmas morning? The twinkle in their eyes, the infectious laughter, and the anticipation of the day’s wonders create moments that stay with us forever.
But for many families worldwide, these special moments are overshadowed by the daily struggles of poverty and uncertainty. Now, more than ever, every child deserves to feel safe and loved—especially at Christmas.
This belief is at the heart of SOS Children’s Villages Family Strengthening Program, which works year-round to support vulnerable families. This program ensures families like Victoria’s* not only survive but thrive together.
From crisis to celebration
Nine years ago, Victoria and her three children lived in dire conditions in Ondangwa, Namibia. Their two-room shack, pieced together with corrugated metal and scrap wood, offered no electricity or security. Cooking was done on charcoal, and their three metal-framed beds were barely covered with thin, threadbare foam. Without ownership of their home, they lived under constant threat of eviction, with no safe place to go.
Victoria’s struggles were immense. Battling diabetes and high blood pressure, she worked long hours as a labourer to feed her children. Her only reliable income was a $25 monthly government grant for her disabled daughter, Ena*. Despite her efforts, there were days when her children had no food until she returned home. Even then, it was often not enough.
Her eldest son, Lukas*, only 11 years old, shouldered responsibilities far beyond his years. After school, he rushed home to care for Ena, who relied on him to get through the day. Meanwhile, 3-year-old Tau* did his best to support his older siblings, tethering himself to Ena to help her move around.
This heart-wrenching reality is difficult to imagine for those of us living in more fortunate circumstances. Yet, it’s an all-too-common story in communities affected by extreme poverty.
A gift of hope
SOS Children’s Villages Family Strengthening Program team quickly identified the family’s urgent needs and took action. Food and life-saving medicine for Victoria and school uniforms for the children were provided. Electricity was installed in their home, along with an electric cooktop, easing the burden of daily living. Ena was enrolled in a local school for children with disabilities, and Tau was welcomed into the kindergarten at SOS Children’s Villages in Ondangwa.
Through persistent advocacy, the team helped secure additional allowances for the family. With these resources, Victoria’s health improved, and the family experienced their first joyful Christmas together in a long time.
A lasting impact
Today, Victoria and her children are thriving. They live in a safe neighbourhood where they continue to create treasured memories. Lukas is training to become an electrician, Ena is completing her last year of high school, and Tau is excelling in primary school.
Victoria, who never had the chance to attend school, trained as a restaurant kitchen assistant. Her improved health and steady work have brought stability and hope to her family.
“This Christmas, we have so much to celebrate, thanks to your kindness,” Victoria shares. “Our lives are so different now, and I have such hope for my children’s futures. I feel encouraged to know there are people who care about us, even from afar.”
Year end 3X impact
Your gift to SOS Children’s Villages Canada this holiday season can transform families’ lives like Victoria’s. Donations will be matched 3-to-1 until December 31, 2024, tripling your impact.
Let’s make this Christmas and Holiday Season brighter for vulnerable children and families so that they can thrive.
*Names changed to protect privacy.