In early July, the leader of the New Life Crocheters from Florence, Oregon, contacted Ysleta Lutheran Mission Human Care (YLM) with a heartfelt request: to distribute handmade blankets to migrant children in El Paso or Cd. Juarez. This prayer group pours their hearts into crafting each blanket, praying for the recipients as they work. Jan, one of the group members, was especially moved by the challenges faced by migrant children, who have little control over their circumstances.

Throughout the summer and early fall, over twenty women gathered monthly to crochet colorful blankets while praying for the children. One member even made 20 blankets in three months. Once six boxes of blankets arrived at YLM, plans were made to deliver them to shelters supporting migrant families with children.

In December, YLM’s Interim Executive Director, Karla Gonzalez, and two staff members delivered several boxes with over forty quilts to the Rescue Mission of El Paso for their residents. While their main mission is aiding the homeless, this organization began sheltering migrant families, including young children, in October 2021 due to increasing need. For these children, two boxes of crocheted blankets were brought to the warehouse turned shelter where they are housed.

As Karla shared the story behind the blankets, smiles spread among the children and their mothers. The children eagerly lined up, youngest to oldest, chattering with excitement. Karla personally handed each child a blanket, showing them the attached cards and reminding them they are seen, loved, and prayed for. She warmly added, “Jesus loves you!”

Each child’s joy was evident as they received their blanket, a small but meaningful possession in the midst of their challenges. For many, the blankets provided not just warmth but a sense of comfort and belonging. A 12-year-old boy, who shared he missed his friends, was reassured by Karla’s hug and reminder that Jesus is with him. His response was a heartfelt, “Amen.”

These lovingly made blankets offer more than physical warmth; they are a symbol of care and hope. The New Life Crocheters’ dedication illustrates that love transcends borders. For the children who received these gifts, it’s a lasting reminder that even in dark times, they are seen, loved, and prayed for.

YLM has a Refugee Care and Compassion effort, where they provide needed resources to their mission-churches and non-profit organizations who seek to bring relief to displaced migrants in El Paso, Cd. Juarez, and even along the border. You can donate to Refugee Care and Compassion to help continue this on-going effort to bring God’s love to the foreigners among us.