Every Christmas season reminds me of how important it is to give, to uplift, and to show children that they are seen and valued. Although this is not the orphanage in Mexico where I grew up with 68 siblings, it is one of close to 20 orphanages we support through the Magdalena Cook Foundation. Each visit gives me the same feeling of purpose and gratitude. Every time I walk through the doors of a new orphanage, I am reminded why I made a promise to myself when I had an epiphany at six years old:
“I am going to do something big, so that some day I will come back and help my brothers and sisters, just so that I can see them smile”.
This year, once again that promise came alive in a new and beautiful way.
A Day Filled With Smiles
When I arrived at this orphanage, the children welcomed us with joyful energy and open arms. Their smiles, laughter, and excitement filled the entire space. These moments, when a child feels safe enough to run toward you and hug you tightly, are the moments that stay with me forever.
Even though this is not the home where my own childhood took place, I felt a familiar sense of connection. Children everywhere deserve love, support, and a chance to believe in their own future.
Gifts Made Possible Through Generosity
This year’s Christmas gifts were especially meaningful because they were made possible through the generosity of partners who believe in our mission.
One of the biggest supporters was the Fierce Women community during their Fierce Women 1st Anniversary Celebration, led by the wonderful Celeste Toby. Through her kindness and the support of her lipstick company, and Fleet Service Automotive, led by Sue Wengren. We were able to provide shirts, socks, hygiene supplies, and meaningful educational gifts that brought joy to the children.
Small Gifts That Create Big Joy
For many of these children, receiving something new is a rare experience. Watching them hold their shirts tightly, smiling from ear to ear, reminded me that small gifts can create big hope.
Moments That Bring Us Together
Why This Work Matters
Through the Magdalena Cook Foundation, we close twenty orphanages, providing resources that help children feel cared for, supported, and seen. This particular orphanage is only one of many, but every smile, every hug, and every shared moment reinforces why we do what we do.
These children deserve education. They deserve safety. They deserve encouragement, community, and hope for a better future. They deserve to know that the world has not forgotten about them.
And with every visit, I am reminded that hope is powerful. It can change the direction of a child’s life. It can turn fear into confidence. It can turn dreams into reality.
All of this work would not be possible without Aidee Mellado, who is leading the efforts in providing the support and being a partner with The Magdalena Cook Foundation.
How You Can Help
If you feel called to support our mission and help bring joy to more children across the orphanages we serve, you can join us.
To donate or partner with us, please email:
team@magiecook.com
Your kindness becomes part of these children's stories. And together, we can help them rise to their future with courage, confidence, and love.
From My Heart to Yours
Thank you for sharing this moment of giving with me. May your Christmas be filled with light, gratitude, and compassion. And may we all remember that every act of kindness has the power to shape a child’s future.
Merry Christmas,
Magie
