Lighting Up Lives in the Dark: How a Christmas Tree Brought Hope to Refugee Families

The Christmas Tree Project is an initiative that brought incredible joy and hope to the refugee families of Mizoram. Although the celebration took place in December, we are only now able to share this heartwarming update due to the time it took to gather information safely from the field. The event’s impact remains vivid, and its story deserves to be told as a testament to the resilience and unity of these communities.

This past December, the project turned the Laki Refugee Camp into a beacon of light and hope during a season traditionally marked by celebration. The centerpiece of this effort was a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, set up in the camp church. For many of the children and families, it was their first opportunity to celebrate "Sweet December" since displacement. The tree became more than a festive decoration—it was a powerful symbol of togetherness, resilience, and the enduring spirit of Christmas.

For most children in our IDP camps, Christmas has become a distant memory of their life before displacement. Many have spent years away from their homes, missing the simple joys of decorating a Christmas tree or receiving a gift. Last year, we watched as children gathered around the few homes that could afford small decorations, their eyes lighting up at even the simplest holiday symbols.

And so this year, thanks to this donation for a very worthy cause, children and teachers collaborated to transform the camp church into a festive haven. This wasn’t just about decorations; it was a collective act of love and dedication that brought a sense of ownership and pride to everyone involved. The sense of community deepened as families came together to prepare a shared meal. Each child was given a cup of rice, and the team purchased local chicken to create a delicious chicken rice meal. It was a simple yet profound act of generosity and togetherness.

The highlight of the celebration was the evening program, when the community gathered for a heartfelt sing-song service, the ceremonial lighting of the Christmas tree, and a shared meal. The glow of the tree illuminated more than just the camp; it lit up the hearts of everyone present, offering a rare moment of joy and a powerful reminder that even in the toughest circumstances, there is light, love, and hope.

This initiative was more than just a celebration—it was a gift of emotional warmth and community connection for families who have faced extraordinary hardships. One Sunday School volunteer movingly described the experience, saying, “This project extends far beyond physical support—it nourishes our spirits and uplifts our minds. After three years in this camp, where even basic necessities are a challenge, we hadn't been able to celebrate Sweet December. Thanks to this project, we decorated our church and created a meaningful experience for our children and families.”

We extend our deepest gratitude to the donors and supporters who made this project possible. Your kindness and compassion turned a simple idea into an unforgettable experience that strengthened community bonds and created cherished memories. This project exemplifies how even small acts of generosity can have an immeasurable impact on those in need.

As we look back on the joy this project brought, we also look forward to continuing these efforts in the future. The Christmas Tree Project has reminded us all of the transformative power of hope, unity, and love—and the role each of us can play in making the world a brighter place. Thank you for being part of this journey and helping us light up lives, one tree at a time.