Viva A4:Layout 1
9/9/10
15:29
Page 1
www.viva.org
CHRISTMAS PARTIES
2009 Nepal Working as a domestic labourer in Nepal for a family who mistreated him, 10-year old Ramesh never thought he would have the opportunity to celebrate Christmas. But three months ago Ramesh escaped his abusive job and found refuge at a shelter run by members of Viva’s network in Kathmandu. In December the network ran a Viva Christmas Party and Ramesh was able to celebrate Christmas for the first time. He told us: “In my life I had never thought that I could participate in such a good event with lots of entertainment, love, food and gifts. As I saw the talents of my friends like dancing and singing I could not stay quiet. I too felt like doing something. They gave a chance for me to sing. Everybody clapped me and I realised that I am something special and I have some talents too.”
Paraguay In Latin America one of Viva’s networks held a party at the Emmanuel Feeding Centre in Paraguay. In the middle of the party a little girl stopped to watch the festivities, along with her mother who works as a street vendor. This girl used to visit the feeding centre, but had not been for some time. The little girl was really excited by what she saw, and although she arrived in the middle of the party, the staff and volunteers were able to give her a nice big lunch and a present to take away. Even better, the leader of the feeding programme was able to reconnect with her and her mother. Now she is back at the centre almost every day, receiving a nutritious meal and plenty of care and attention.
Tanzania In Tanzania Viva’s network held a Christmas Party for over 100 children, most of whom were living on the streets or in local slums, and receiving no education. So along with the games, songs, gifts and food you would expect at a party, the network has also been able to provide help that will continue long after the presents have been opened and the balloons have popped. Just over half of the children who came to the Christmas Party have been connected to local churches which are now providing food and social support for them once a week. Plans are also being made to enrol them in schools and to ensure they are encouraged in their studies. One of these children said to us: “This party has changed my life - I am no longer a ‘street boy’. What I have received today has made my future brighter than before.”
Thank you for your support!