Six-year-old Aynalem was adopted from Ethiopia five years ago. One way she and her family stay connected with her birth culture is by sponsoring a child in Ethiopia — a girl named Degefech! This year, in her family’s Christmas card to Degefech, Aynalem — with some typing help from her parents — included a special note just from her.
Hello Degefech, my name is Aynalem. I am 6 years old and I live in Oregon, USA. I am in first grade, in elementary (your primary) school. I play soccer (your football) on a team called Fútbol Club Portland. I like to dance and sing, and I really like to draw.
This is where I live…
I have two older brothers. My oldest brother is Andrew and he is 10 years old. He is in fifth grade in elementary (your primary) school. My other brother is Aiden and he is 7 years old. He is in second grade in school. Both of my brothers play soccer and are great students at school.
I was adopted from Ethiopia 5 years ago. I was born in Wolayta, near Awassa. I have not been back to Ethiopia yet, but I want to go soon.
What do you like to do for fun? Will you write me back and tell me about you? I hope you have a happy holidays with your family.
Melkam Genna,
Degefech must have been so excited to receive this special Christmas note! She is 11 years old and attends Yesus Mena School for the Deaf in Ethiopia, where she receives the specialized education, nutrition and support that she needs to thrive.
If you’d like to connect with a child Holt serves, sponsorship is a great way to do so! Three times a year, you’ll have the opportunity to send your sponsored child a special gift, while every day of the year, you will support him or her to pursue their dreams and rise above poverty.
