January 2, 2025

There is a reason that many people have a special affinity for this time of year. Like being offered a clean slate, the New Year signifies a new beginning. The concept of “new beginnings” is especially powerful because it rings so true for the boys and girls of Mercy Home.

Often, our kids’ pasts hold little but painful memories. Until they come to our Home, few of them truly believed they had much of a future. But thanks to loving friends and partners in prayer like you, each of our young people have a new beginning—a second chance in life. They finally have the chance to dream, to work toward their goals, and to be kids.

In so many ways you’ve answered our children’s prayers. By giving these young people a warm, secure environment where they are surrounded by people who care for them, you’ve given them the gift of a future. You can’t imagine what that means to kids like Gabe.

Gabe never had a father figure in his life. His dad was absent from his birth, and his mother brought home a succession of men who had no interest in being a paternal figure to a young boy. Often, these men would abuse Gabe, both emotionally and physically.

When Gabe thought he couldn’t take anymore, he called the authorities to report the abuse he was receiving at the hands of his mother’s boyfriends. But this was an unforgivable crime as far as his mother was concerned. She threw him out of the house.

Things could have taken a terrible turn for Gabe. He certainly felt hopeless many times in his young life. But, by the grace of God, he found his way to Mercy Home.

Now that he’s in a safe place, Gabe is making progress slowly. It’s easy to understand why he’s so hesitant to trust another person after being let down so many times. He still finds it difficult to open up about his feelings, but with the encouragement of our coworkers, he is trying.

Gabe is also putting a lot of effort into his schoolwork. He’s been working every night with his tutors, studying hard, and getting extra help on tough subjects. He recently brought home an A on a test, and his bright smile lit up the room. It may not be easy for Gabe after all he’s been through, but he is on the path to healing. He has hope after so many dark years.

It is only because of the kindness of Partners in Prayer like you that we can make a difference in the lives of kids just like Gabe. May God bless you for your prayers and support—and know, too, that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Please note: Because we care deeply about protecting our children’s privacy, the names and certain identifying details in this story have been changed.