DonateThe Hardships and Warmth of the Winter Season
As winter approaches in the Northern Hemisphere, cities like New York transform in preparation for the festive season. Following the whirlwind of Black Friday, families eagerly begin to decorate for Christmas. The shorter days and gloomy skies are counterbalanced by the glow of holiday lights and the warmth they bring to our hearts. Yet, as I reflect on this time of year, I am reminded that winter’s beauty and festivities often mask the harsh realities faced by many.
Recently, while sharing my admiration for the vivid foliage of fall with a colleague, I was met with a surprising perspective. To him, the vibrant reds and golds of autumn represent a bittersweet farewell, a prelude to the harshness of winter. His words lingered with me, and as he explained further, I began to understand. For those who struggle to make ends meet—particularly the disadvantaged—winter is not a season of joy but one of survival.
In places like the Sierra Tarahumara in Mexico, winter represents a time of endurance. Among the indigenous Rarámuri people, known for their strength and resilience, the season brings profound challenges. Stories shared by students in our programs in the region highlight the stark contrast between the warmth of my childhood Christmas memories and the trials they face.
Last year, when I visited our partners in Mexico, I had the opportunity to talk with youth residing at Instituto Técnico Sisoguichi, a middle school located among the mountains of the Sierra Tarahumara, for them winter is a season of struggle. Tasks we might take for granted become monumental challenges. Washing clothes, for example, requires breaking through layers of ice on the local river. The freezing water not only stings but often causes painful lacerations on their hands.
At Internado Sagrado Corazón de Jesús, staff shared that winter is a time when illnesses spike among the children (first photo of this post). Many lack sufficient warm clothing to shield them from the biting cold. Yet, amidst these hardships, their spirit remains unbroken, reflecting the enduring strength of the Rarámuri people—a strength celebrated in their culture and even in their renowned long-distance races.
While winter’s challenges can feel overwhelming, it is also a time when the warmth of community and generosity shines brightest. Thanks to the support of donors like you, our partner organizations in Mexico can provide essential resources to help youth endure the season. From warm clothing to nourishing meals, your contributions make a tangible difference.
In the spirit of the season, we invite you to stand with us in supporting these resilient communities. Every donation—no matter the size—helps to ensure that youth in the Sierra Tarahumara can face the winter months with hope and dignity. Together, we can extend the warmth of the holidays to those who need it most.
Let’s make this winter not just a season of survival but one of shared humanity and compassion. Your support means the world to us and to the youth we serve. Thank you for helping us bring light to the darkest days of the year.
Author
Elser Llanos
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