We were hoping that the Canada Post strike would be over by now, and Les & Rita’s Christmas Letter would be well on its way to your mailbox. But we don’t want you to have to wait any longer to read Luis’ story. Especially since you only have until December 31st to double your impact for kids in Guatemala! (Good thing there are options: you can donate online or call in your donation at 250-434-4350.)
Our hearts were touched by Luis’ father’s dreams for Luis – and we’re so excited that together, we can be a part of dreaming of brighter futures for kids in Guatemala.
Here’s the letter from Les & Rita:
Luis’ father spends long hours labouring in the fields. He sometimes struggles to feed and clothe his family, but he’s determined to make sure his boys have what they need to go to school. He’s a man of few words. Still, his hopes for his children are profound: “Dreams for my children are the light that illuminates even the darkest days.”
This Christmas, will you come alongside fathers and mothers in Guatemala who are dreaming of a brighter future for their children? Until December 31st, your donation will be matched dollar for dollar, for double the impact!
Every morning, Luis works on his schoolwork and helps his mom with the household chores. As he sweeps the dirt floor or tends the kitchen fire, he sometimes worries – about his mom’s health, his little brother’s education, the family finances. Things an 11-year-old should never have to worry about.
But then Luis heads to school.
A hot, nutritious meal is waiting for him before he starts his classes. His teacher is there with a hug and a listening ear. Luis can sing his heart out alongside his classmates during devotions. At school, he’s learning that God is a God of miracles. He’s learning to speak fluently and to write well, to solve complicated math problems, and to understand the world he lives in. He’s learning that God gives hope. He’s learning to imagine a brighter future for himself.
Can you imagine, for a moment, what Luis’ future would look like without a Vida School to attend?
At 11, Luis would be working alongside his father in the fields. He might contribute a few quetzales to the family finances, but it would be at the expense of his childhood, his education, and his future.
Expenses in Guatemala have risen dramatically, and they’re continuing to rise. Families are struggling, and we are doing our best to support them amidst these rising costs. More than ever, students like Luis need resources for a brighter future.
Costs to serve children like Luis have also gone up. Will you help bridge the gap? Together, we can continue to provide education and so much more for children in Guatemala. Right now, your gift will be matched (up to $132,0000) when you give to Build a Brighter Future!
Luis dreams of graduating and starting a career to help and bless his family. His father dreams that Luis will have a future free of the daily struggles he faces. And we dream that Luis will grow into the plans God has for him.
Will you dream with us? Will you give today? In the almost 25 years we’ve been in Guatemala, we’ve seen thousands of dreams fulfilled by God’s grace and through generous people like you.
Until the end of the year, your gift will be doubled! Because we’re all dreaming of brighter futures for kids in Guatemala.
This holiday season, help us make sure that Vida Schools are there for kids like Luis for years to come. You can bridge the gap, building bright futures for kids in Guatemala!
(You can even gift a brighter future as a Christmas present. Donate at www.impactministries.ca/gift, and you’ll be able to send an email acknowledgement or download a printable acknowledgement card for your loved one.)
