An Xbox 360 game console, an Apple iPhone, designer clothes, and an excess of toys is what you may expect most children to ask for at Christmas time. But that’s not what we heard from our children at City Mission.

A bed, warm clothes, light bulbs and running water were the items on the Christmas lists of the students at City Mission Academy.

“We’re teaching children the difference between wants and needs,” said Nicole Aikens, City Mission executive director. “When you think on what Christmas is really about and how Christ’s coming met our greatest need, and then when you see need through the eyes of our children, this is what they ask for.”

One student asked for a bible, others asked for supplies for school.

This Christmas, through the generous donations of individuals and churches, City Mission was able to sponsor 350 children in Brightmoor with new coats, hats, warm clothes and boots; and 800 families will receive a week’s worth of fresh food for the holidays. Some clothing items have already gone out to families. The holiday meal boxes will be assemble and distributed tomorrow.

“We do this year round, not just on December 25,” Aikens said. “On January 1, kids will still  need running water.”

Until this week, City Mission Academy students could not go outside and play in the snow at recess because they did not have winter boots, snow suits, hats or coats. “Kids were sitting in the classroom in gym shoes and wet socks,” Aikens said. “But you should see the snow now,” she exclaimed.  The warm clothing has given the children the gift of enjoying the winter season without worrying about catching a cold.

Thank you to everyone who, through your financial support, prayers and partnership helped bring Christmas to Brightmoor children and families this year. On behalf of our City Mission family to your families, Merry CHRISTmas!!

Go to City Mission home page span>