Worthy of Love: Gael’s Story

Gael was placed in an orphanage in Michoacán, Mexico, when he was just six years old. Very little is known about his early childhood—only that he has a younger brother, and that he had experienced neglect and domestic violence in his biological family.

Like many vulnerable children around the world, Gael didn’t enter institutional care because he lacked family—but because he lacked safety and support. He spent the next year in the orphanage, facing an uncertain future.

That all changed when Gael was welcomed into a loving foster family.

A Safe Place to Heal

For the first time in his life, Gael was surrounded by the love and attention he needed to thrive.

His foster family worked with our team in Michoacán to ensure he received the care he deserved. And while Gael was now in a safe environment, he had a long journey ahead.

Although his motor development was on track for his age, his foster family noticed he struggled with speech and language. Gael’s vocabulary was limited, and he had difficulty pronouncing and writing words. It was especially challenging for him to distinguish vowels and numbers, so his reading, writing, and math skills were significantly delayed.

In addition to academic delays, Gael struggled socially and emotionally. He was easily frustrated and had trouble interacting with children his own age. He also difficulty relating to female figures and preferred to be in the company of men.

Transformation Through Care and Support

After just a few months with his foster family, Gael’s progress was remarkable.

With support from his family and teachers, his reading and writing skills began to improve. He started enjoying math and grew more confident in the classroom. Learning became something he looked forward to.

At home, he began to express himself more clearly and openly. He became more affectionate with every member of his foster family—offering hugs, saying “I love you,” and forming deep emotional bonds.

WORTHY OF LOVE

Now, nearly a year into his time with his foster family, Gael is growing more independent and confident. He takes initiative with his tasks at home and school, stays engaged in class, and consistently earns good grades.

His self-esteem has blossomed. He’s made friends through school and sports (Gael especially loves soccer), and he now sees himself as someone who is valued, accepted, and loved.

Perhaps most beautifully, Gael has formed a deeper bond with his foster mom, overcoming the early challenges he faced relating to female figures. He now feels secure, safe, and emotionally connected to his entire foster family.

He knows—truly knows—that he is worthy of love.

What a priceless gift. Thank you for changing Gael’s life and giving him hope for the future. We are so grateful.

Together, we are changing the way the world cares for orphans...because every child deserves a family.

*The child’s name has been changed to protect his privacy.