The Gift of Warmth

I’m writing this from El Paso as the last bits of snow from this week’s storm melt away and the snow clouds are rolling in again. The high today is 48 degrees and the forecast for this weekend is more snow. The looming clouds are starting to roll over the mountains and although snow seems to bring on the holiday season for some, for others it brings bitter cold and possible death. It’s hard to enjoy the cold weather and snow as our hearts break for the many families across the border that are without heat. For so many the temperature outside is the same inside.


On a visit this week to Juárez, our staff found freezing families in their homes wearing scarves and jackets. They weren’t dressed like this to go outside but just to keep warm inside their homes. Despite the heartbreak of this situation, there is also a glimmer of hope. One of the families shared that although it is freezing during the day, at night they are kept warm by the electric blankets that they received from Casas por Cristo. Over the past year, because of generous donations, we have been able to give two electric blankets to every family that we have built a home for. Due to the high cost of propane and electricity in México, we aren’t able to warm entire homes during the winter months, but we are finding some comfort in knowing that these families are at least able to sleep warm at night. This is a huge answer to prayers in the midst of the heartache that we feel during these winter months.


I know it’s hard to believe that the excruciating heat of México can turn to such brutal cold, but we are in the midst of it right now. As I comfortably turn on my heat and bundle up from the cold I am personally convicted to begin to fight again on behalf of these families. Last year over $12,000 was donated to purchase electric blankets to keep families in Juárez warm. I’m praying for the same outpouring this year. As you seek warmth yourself this holiday season, please consider helping someone that seeks the same. 100% of the money donated goes directly to providing heat for families in México. Consider giving the actual gift of warmth for Christmas this year.

To donate please visit https://www.givedirect.org/give/givefrm.asp?CID=1005. Please designate “Heat Fund” in the Program Area drop down menu. You will be sent a receipt for your tax deductible gift. You can also donate in honor or remembrance of someone you love. There is a gift card posted on the “Give” page of our website for you to personalize and print. Thank you for giving a gift that matters this Christmas season. It may just be the gift that saves someone’s life.
Thanks for your love and support,
Brittany