Do you remember the excitement of Valentine’s Day as a child – exchanging cards at school, enjoying sweets at home, and feeling special when someone gave you a thoughtful note? For many children, those simple gestures help shape their sense of love and self-worth.

But for the children in our care at Residing Hope, those warm memories are often missing. Their experiences with trauma have distorted their understanding of love and value. Many arrive with hearts already deeply wounded. And sadly, their struggles extend far beyond missing candy or Valentine’s Day cards.

Before coming into our care, some of our children had never slept in a bed of their own or known the comfort of regular meals. Others had never experienced consistent encouragement or the steady support of a loving parent. Through the care and therapeutic support we provide, they begin to feel something many have never known before – safety, love, and hope.

Addison is one of those children. She came to us about a year ago after being removed from an abusive home. She carried heavy guilt for things that were never her fault, including her father leaving when she was very young. Her low self-worth affected everything – her grades, her friendships, even her view of herself.

When her teaching parent recently mentioned Valentine’s Day, Addison shared that she rarely received cards or gifts growing up. Instead of feeling loved, the holiday only reminded her of what she lacked. “I never looked forward to Valentine’s Day,” she said. “It just reminded me of how many friends I didn’t have.”

Thanks to the generous support of individuals like you, Addison received the therapy she needed to heal. She now understands the true love God intends for her. Her grades have climbed, she’s made many new friends, and – for the first time – she’s looking forward to Valentine’s Day. Most importantly, Addison finally feels safe, valued, and loved by God and the people around her.

Will you help more children like Addison receive the daily care and therapeutic support they need by making a gift today?

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