Covenant House Vancouver

Many people have mixed emotions around Christmas time. For those who associate Christmas with unpleasant family memories or those who are alone, this time of year can be rough. For me, this is my first Christmas without my Mom who died last March. My dad is visiting and this is his first Christmas in 53 years without Mom.

For the youth at Covenant House, Christmas can be difficult, a reminder of all that may be missing in their lives. For some, though, Christmas means visiting with family or friends they with whom they still have a connection. The youth are often quite anxious about not having any gifts for family or friends, so we allow them to "shop" in our donations area so they can find some presents for their family members. It is amazing to watch the youth when they "shop", observing the anxiety melt away, seeing the youth become more confident and actually now, looking forward to seeing family because they don't have the apprehension of visiting and arriving empty handed

At Covenant House, we try to make Christmas extra special. The young people receive a stocking on their door Christmas morning and presents generously donated by our donor community. The kitchen staff prepares a beautiful Christmas brunch and the youth join in the preparation of the Christmas dinner feast. Our youth workers say that working Christmas Day is a gift; so much gratitude and so much fellowship.

We are grateful for the opportunity to be here for the youth all year long, but especially so at Christmas when they all need extra love and support.

How is Christmas for you? 

Read More