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Westfalia Orphanage Christmas Party 2012

2013 February 8

Usual Christmas?…no presents, very little food, thinking about what ‘normal’ kids have. This Christmas? …280 presents, turkey lunch for everyone, singing, dancing, games, nibblies, cakes, muffins, and cookies, drinks, water balloons, lots of fun…and knowing that just because you don’t have a traditional family, doesn’t mean you don’t have love. Thanks for all those that made it possible to show orphans without family that they really do have a family!

On Saturday 22nd December, Sonrisasenperu hosted our 3rd annual Westfalia Orphanage Christmas Party. With the help of so many people, it was even bigger and better than last year. There was lots of fun, singing, dancing, games and prizes, a traditional turkey lunch, soft drink and sweets. It was such a special day for the 100 orphans that have lived at the remote orphanage in Cieneguilla on the outskirts of Lima most of their lives.

A huge thank you to those that helped make this day possible, particularly George, Alex, Brenda and Patricio, Miguel, Clare and her students, Sean & family, Randy, Yuko and the boys, and even my mum Mary who was visiting from Australia and probably wrapped over 100 presents herself! It was a huge task to organize and coordinate all the gifts, food, drinks, games, and activities so thanks everyone for helping make the day perfect!

Each child received two gifts each and it was so rewarding to see the looks on their faces as they came up and collected them. These aren’t kids who have bikes, playstations, electronics of any kind, or toys we took for granted growing up so their faces showed how exciting it really was for them.

A big thanks to those who came out and supported us as well and helped out with the games (Clare and her amazing students!), food, giving out the gifts and helping out with the Christmas spirit! Check out the kids dancing Gangnam Style with Clare and her students http://youtu.be/C1PeoDGcwBE

And seeing the kids opening their presents was an amazing sight.

So again, a big thank you to those who have helped us make this event so special. And thank you to all those who have donated funds, food, clothes, and their time to these kids. For over 3 years now I have personally seen amazing changes in these children. They all come from terrible situations whether it be physical or sexual abuse, abandonment, from the streets, or simply that their families cannot afford to care for them. They come from all parts of Peru and join this big family. And they continually grow in character from shy and reserved children into loving, confident, caring, empathetic teenagers. And this doesn’t occur just from dropping off food or clothes but from constant contact and letting them know that people do care about them, and that they are worthwhile. And the children are well aware of the global help they receive and constantly ask me about the people and countries that contribute. So thank you for making a difference in the lives of others.

Sonrisasenperu has new projects for 2013 including the urgent need to upgrade the childrens’ rundown, 23 year old accommodation, continuing classes for Westfalia Orphanage (English, dance, and swimming) as well as continuing to provide food and clothing for the 100 orphans at Westfalia as well as other rural children in need. If you can help out please send a donation or help spread the word by copying this post onto your facebook or twitter. Thanks!

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