A Christmas to Remember
Pictured: Valencia and her daughter
Valencia will always remember when, at 11 years old, she experienced the magic of Christmas for the first time. Valencia spent most of her life in foster care, a world of uncertainty and instability. But when she entered our care in Mobile, her life began to change.
As the Christmas season arrived, Valencia’s ABCH social worker took her to the mall, where she witnessed a sight that would leave a lasting impression. Right before her eyes stood the most magnificent Christmas tree she had ever seen, covered with sparkling lights and beautiful ornaments. It was the kind of tree she had always admired in magazines and movies. “I had never seen anything like this,” Valencia said. “It was just beautiful . . . I was in awe.”
Sadly, their time at the mall came to an end, and Valencia had to part ways with the majestic tree. But a few days later, when she returned from school, she found a Christmas tree in her foster home just like the one in the mall. “I was just so mesmerized by it,” she recalled. “My house parents bought some silver tinsel and asked if I wanted to put it on there . . . and I was so giddy.”
Valencia’s story is a reminder that countless children in Alabama have never experienced a Christmas like this . . . many of those children are uncertain if they will even have enough to eat on Christmas day.
Valencia also remembers the piles of gifts under that tree, some of which were just for her. It made her feel special. She also got to hear why Christmas is so full of hope—that the birth of Christ was the greatest gift to us all.
The kindness and support of individuals, donors, and volunteers across Alabama made this magical experience possible.
Valencia’s time at ABCH meant so much to her that she now works full-time as a Family Care Specialist in our ministry. She helps struggling mothers and children get back on their feet.
These memories are so meaningful to Valencia that she’s dedicated her life to ensuring that children and families facing challenges can experience the same magic of Christmas she did. Every year, she begins decorating the Family Care home as early as July so the children can experience the wonder of the season, just as she did when she first saw that beautiful tree at the mall.
She works hard to provide beautifully decorated trees for hurting kids and families to admire and experience the joy of opening their very own presents on Christmas day.
“I want them to know Jesus loves them,” Valencia shared. “I want them to know that there are people out there . . . that love you [and are there for you].”
These Christmas joyful Christmas memories help foster kids heal a lifetime of pain. This special season lets them know that they’re not alone and that they are truly loved. Not only by their foster family or by ABCH supporters—ultimately by their Heavenly Father.