Dear friend,
This Christmas season, as we gather with our loved ones to celebrate, we remember that Christmas is a time when we reflect upon the story of Jesus. He came into the world to spread love, compassion, and salvation to all people, regardless of their circumstances or past. It's a reminder that God's love knows no bounds, and it inspires us to carry out this divine mission of love in our own lives.
At TCM, we are committed to manifesting this love by supporting children and families who are facing challenges, often in circumstances beyond their control. Our after-school programs, leadership initiatives, and the heartwarming Christmas meals we provide are part of our ongoing efforts to bring hope and transformation to their lives.
In the spirit of Christmas, I'd like to share a story of love, hope, and transformation that embodies the essence of our mission, and ask for your support in giving the Gift of Christmas year-round.
We met cousins Jessie and John through our after-school program, who were facing many challenges at the time. Easily outraged and physically and verbally hurtful, their pain manifested through their actions, providing a challenging environment for them and for those around them. But they needed our understanding, compassion, and a connection to their pain. It was during this crucial encounter that God's divine timing became evident.
During our after-school program, whenever their emotions seemed to be spiralling out of control, we would give them, along with other children, the attention and understanding they deserved. It was in these moments that we witnessed the transformative power of the Holy Spirit at work. Over time, we noticed a significant change in Jessie and John. They became more receptive to our conversations and, most importantly, more open to understanding and managing their emotions. Previously, they would retaliate and persist in their negative behaviour when provoked by their peers. Now, they were learning healthier ways to cope and communicate.
This story is crucial on multiple levels. Firstly, it reflects the boundless love and understanding that Jesus exhibited during His ministry. Just as Jesus embraced those who were marginalized and hurting, we, too, extended our love and care to Jessie and John. This experience underscores the power of the Holy Spirit in guiding young hearts toward transformation.
Your Gift of Christmas will help TCM continue to offer these life-changing programs in all three of our communities - Flemingdon Park, Jesse-Ketchum, and Kingston-Galloway. Your Gift of Christmas will enable us to:
Expand our after-school programs to reach more children and youth in need of KIC (Kids in Community) after-school, EPIC (Education Provided In Community) tutoring, and Junior Extreme
Foster leadership skills in young individuals, giving them the tools they need to succeed in life through the TLC (Teens Leading Community) program
Provide comforting meals to families struggling to make ends meet during the Christmas season.
Matthew 19:14 (NIV) reminds us: "Jesus said, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.'“ In the transformation of Jessie and John, we see the manifestation of this biblical truth. Their story reaffirms our commitment to guide children toward Christ, no matter their past or challenges, reflecting the love and understanding that Jesus embodies.
This Christmas, you have the opportunity to be an instrument of God's love and transformation in the lives of those who need it most. Your generosity will not only bring joy this holiday season but will create a lasting impact, echoing the divine message of love and hope that Christmas represents.
Thank you for your commitment to making a difference in the lives of our city's most vulnerable residents. May your Christmas be filled with the warmth of God's love and the joy of giving.
In His Service
Elliott Shin Executive Director