Birthday surprise

Becky*, a young girl who recently joined our Oasis Girls’ Home in Guatemala, beamed with pride when she was handed a present on her birthday in September.

“She was so grateful to receive a present, her whole face lit up and she kept on thanking the staff”, said Debora, a member of the Stand by Me team in Guatamala.

Becky’s smile was not just because she was happy it was her birthday. Her smile wasn’t because she thought the enticing packaging might contain her favourite gift either. Her smile was because it was the first time she had received a birthday present as far back as she can remember.

For many of us, it is hard to imagine not enjoying celebrations as each birthday comes around, not to have a birthday cake or friends and family spoiling us. For lots of the children in our care, however, until they come to Stand by Me they have never known what it is to celebrate a birthday. Some of our children were born into such extreme poverty that they do not even know when their real birthday is. For Becky, this year was different. This year her birthday was a time of celebration, in a stable home, surrounded by people who love her.

Becky came to Stand by Me after the authorities decided she was no longer able to live at home. Her stepmother was mistreating her and they had a bad relationship. Becky now lives with her Stand by Me sisters at the Oasis Girl’s Home in San Lucas, and is settling well into her new environment. Debora said, “We are seeing Becky’s attitude change and she is becoming more open, and is letting God into her life. Please pray for her heart to open up more as she lives here.”

It is thanks to Stand by Me supporters that we are able to provide loving care to 3,000 children worldwide. If you would like to be a part of this change, find out what we do and how you can get involved today.

*Name has been changed for privacy reasons