CCFC shares the spirit of Christmas with those who need it most

By William Anim-Dankwa, CCFC communications manager, Ghana

Join a holiday celebration in Ghana

Sumaila, 12, is bare-chested, holding his shirt on a dusty, hazy, humid December afternoon in Ghana. Around him, as his peers wait for the sun to go down, Emmanuel, Christian Children’s Fund of Canada’s (CCFC) sponsorship assistant, arrives on his motorbike.

The children immediately run towards Emmanuel, sensing he has good news to share — and he does. He’s come to announce a Christmas party in a predominately Muslim community where the holiday has little significance.

Without discriminating, CCFC throws a highly anticipated party every year, giving children gifts and Christmas cards from their sponsors before the holiday. “The party is always a happy occasion for us,” says Mohammed, a student.

Last year, more than 6,000 children enjoyed the celebration, and 60 children were selected from rural schools to visit the Tamale Airport and sit in an airplane for the first time.

The children were excited. “It was wonderful boarding the aircraft, which … we always see flying overhead; it’s a really big machine,” said Sumaila.

Aisha also took part in the visit and couldn’t hide her excitement. “It was fun. I was scared at first, but when I sat in the airplane, I was happy. I thank CCFC.”

Flash-forward to the present-day party where children are enjoying their biscuits and refreshments while dancing in the dust, until their feet are caked in dirt. They’re in the mood for Christmas — a time of peace and joy to the world. Sumaila, Mohammed and Aisha are very grateful to CCFC donors for the support.

Sponsor a child today.

About Children Believe

Children Believe works globally to empower children to dream fearlessly, stand up for what they believe in — and be heard. For 60+ years, we’ve brought together brave young dreamers, caring supporters and partners, and unabashed idealists. Together, we’re driven by a common belief: creating access to education — inside and outside of classrooms — is the most powerful tool children can use to change their world.

About Inspiring Stories

May 2025

Canada’s Opportunity to Lead: Education as a Path ...

As the G7 Summit approaches, Children Believe CEO Fred Witteveen calls on Canada to lead the world in supporting 12 years of quality education for all children—because education is key to global peace and prosperity.

May 2025

Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025

A new government program in Ghana is providing free sanitary pads to help girls stay in school. Learn how Children Believe is supporting this initiative to break down barriers and fight period poverty.

May 2025

From Despair to a New Dawn Varalakshmi’s Story of ...

A moving story of resilience—learn how Varalakshmi overcame poverty, loss and stigma to build a better life for her children with the support of Children Believe and its local partner in India.