Christmas Tradition for Generations to Come

defendHERs –

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It’s been a big (and busy) month at Onehope Refuge. Our first Christmas ever.

We’ve decked the halls. Made the cookies. Wrapped the gifts. Done the therapy. We’ve created special memories. We’ve leaned into everything this season is truly about!

For as long as I can remember, my family has read the story of Jesus’ birth prior to opening gifts on Christmas morning. It’s been a tradition and a grounding that we all look forward to each year. I didn’t think much of it when last week at our team + survivor holiday party, I suggested we continue with the same “Christmas Story” tradition at Onehope Refuge. Quickly, I was reminded (again) of the vastness of everyone’s lived experiences. “Sure, which book?”, our families asked. At first, they imagined a picture book. A library book. A novel. Definitely not The Bible. This created a beautiful opportunity. A moment for us all. Together, we turned to The Word:

Luke: Chapter 2 

The Christmas Story: The Savior of the world is born.

As we read, something extraordinary happened. A full circle moment that connected each survivor back with the true meaning of “Onehope”: Our ONE HOPE is – and will always be – found in the birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The birth of Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of God’s promise to redeem mankind, the arrival of the Savior who lived as fully man and fully God, and the One who gives eternal life to all who believe.

This is the real gift of Christmas: the birth of the One who was prophesied centuries before in Micah 5:2 and Isaiah 9:6-7. “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given… and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Because of Him, everything changed —yesterday, today, and forever.

At Onehope Refuge, we cling to the HOPE of Christmas. We pray that unshakable foundations are being laid right this very minute. We pray that generations are coming to know Him. We pray our families will share their newfound faith and inspire others to come to know The LORD this season. ❤️

defendHERs Year-End Giving Campaign Update:

Each week, we receive calls from social agencies desperate to place families. We long to serve more survivors, however, before we can make that happen, we need to raise the capital needed to cover 2025 operating expenses for our current residents. Each month, it takes $25,000 to run Onehope Refuge ($300,000/year). This covers housing and related expenses, physical + mental health care, team of certified professionals providing 24/7 coverage, etc. 

Once we secure this funding, we’ll begin welcoming additional families + investing more ($600,000) in our land vision – “Refuge Acres,” a therapeutic, sprawling property that will house and support many more women and children. Click here to take a virtual tour! 🎥

If you are able to give, would you consider Onehope Refuge? Many have signed up to become monthly donors – contributing at levels that are personally significant to them (and us). Every donation, no matter the size, makes a meaningful difference.

Raising Awareness: Human Trafficking Spikes During the Holiday Season

“The holidays are supposed to be a season full of cheer, but the darker realities of human trafficking can often overshadow them. The holiday rush, with increased travel, creates distractions that allow traffickers to more easily operate under the radar.”

Please click here to educate yourself and learn more about the ways you can remain vigilant + advocate for others this Christmas season. 

⬇️ ⬇️ Scroll below to check out December’s “Praises and Prayer Requests” + our safe home’s Amazon Wishlist. We are so grateful for your continued love and support!