Orphan Party Day

The party train rolled into Parakou, Benin and made a stop at our PfP office during our visit. We gave the orphans in our sponsorship program a special day and had as much fun as they did. It was the chance to give them all of the attention and love and center the day around them, something they have never experienced. After the introductions and explaining how much their sponsors loved and cared for them, the good times began to roll. Every kid loves to color, but these kids never get the chance, so we gave them a big piece of paper and crayons and let them loose. It was sad to see them react to what was in front of them, some of them did not know what to do. They did not understand or know how to be creative and create anything that they wanted. We had to show them what to do, eventually they got the hang of it. They also made beaded bracelets, had their faces painted, and received gift bags. For lunch we wanted to give them something they never get, something different, so we catered in hamburgers. This is a big deal there because most can not afford it, so they have never tried one. For the most part a burger there is like a burger here, but with a fried egg. You should have seen their faces when they opened up their lunch boxes, they lit up the room. This was also a lead by example moment because had to show them how to eat it, it was too cute! We finished the day with glow bracelets, a PfP loves me t-shirt, and their gift bags. The kids were so grateful for everything and each item or event during the day brought them new excitement. Even though giving the gifts, watching them attempt to eat a burger, and coloring was great, the incredible part was watching them respond to the attention, love, smiles, and hugs. They craved the love and affirmation that they don't get. For that day they were the center, they were what was important, they were the focus of someone's love. It was overwhelming to experience. Although the sponsors were not there in person, their love was felt from the US through gifts, smiles, and burgers.

**Check out the pictures below**