Christmas Friendship Program (SeAM)

Christmas Friendship Program

The Christmas Friendship Program is a long-standing tradition at SeAM. Our Parish Nurses and friends
refer families to this program based on need. Families are then matched with sponsoring churches, businesses,
and individuals who want to make a difference in the lives of others. Sponsors purchase gifts and deliver them to the refugee families during the month of December.

This year, over 82 families (well over 400 people total) received gifts through the Christmas Friendship Program, including many who arrived to Minnesota only a few weeks ago. Many of the sponsors who bought or delivered gifts called or wrote us back to share their experiences with us. Check back in every few days: we'll be posting different pictures and stories from our sponsors to this page.

Paul Hesterberg delivered to the Tin Win Ye family from SeaM. He tried to deliver gifts at 2, after he came to pick them up, but then he couldn’t get in – the mother was afraid of him. He went again after 5 with his wife to diffuse any intimidation, and this time they let him in and there was a daughter who spoke English. They delivered the gifts, then they sang some carols and the kids joined in – it was a great time! .

If you would like to learn more about our Christmas Friendship Program, or if you have a story that you would like to share, please call the SeAM office at 651-293-1261.