LETTER WRITING
If you're writing a Christmas card to your child in Honduras, here are some things to remember:
- The season is celebrated as early as the first few days in November. Children in Honduran child development centers enjoy Christmas from beginning to end. Children make wreaths, candles, baskets, yarn decorations and Christmas cards for their sponsors. Most families have a small and simple Christmas tree, and children open their gifts on Christmas Eve. For many children, this may be the only occasion during the year in which they receive a new set of clothes.
- A highlight of the season is the Christmas program, where children participate in plays, songs and poetry reading. Sometimes staff members even wear a clown costume for entertainment. After the program, children receive their Christmas gifts, along with grapes, apples, candy or other treats popular during the season.
- Following this, children and their parents enjoy a special meal of stuffed chicken or pork, rice or mashed potatoes, salad and typical desserts, like torrejas (similar to French toast served with heavy sugar syrup and cinnamon) and rosquillas (shaped like donuts, but salty and crunchy) soaked in honey. In Honduran communities, it is very common for families to visit homes that have a nativity display.
Information Regarding Language Differences:
- In Spanish-speaking countries, "culto" means "worship service."
Write your child a letter.
GIFT GIVING
Child Gifts
Below are some examples of what a monetary gift can purchase for your child in Honduras:
$15 and under: ball, blanket, book, chicken, doll, lamp, pants, shirt, toy
$30 and under: clothes, food, mattress, shoes, tools
Give your child a gift.
Family Gifts
Below are some examples of what a monetary gift can purchase for your child's family in Honduras:
$100 and under: goat, pig, sewing machine (new)
$200 and under: bike
$300 and under: cow
Income-generating ideas within the family gift limit of $300 are:
- Establishing a small grocery store (pulperia) in the front of the family's home or under a tree to sell sodas, bread, snacks, coffee, sugar, candies, water, newspapers, etc. A monetary gift can be used to purchase a refrigeration unit.
- Selling used clothing, fruits, vegetables, etc.
Give a family gift.
Learn more about your child's country.
