Sharing Hope: Arturo’s Story

For nearly five years, Arturo lived without the love and support of a family. Admitted to an orphanage as a two-month-old infant, he faced a world without the personal care and connection that only a family can provide.

While Arturo’s basic needs—such as shelter, food, and clothing—were met, something essential was missing: the nurturing interactions and individual attention critical for a child’s healthy development.

Research shows that children raised in institutional care often fall behind in nearly every area of development. Arturo was at risk of these delays, especially during a crucial period of growth. From birth to age five, a child’s brain develops more rapidly than at any other time in life. Sadly, Arturo spent these formative years without the love, stability, and encouragement that only a family can offer.

In many parts of the world, children like Arturo remain in institutional care for years, falling further behind and facing uncertain futures. But thanks to your support, Arturo’s story doesn’t end in the orphanage.

Arturo was one of the first children in the state of Colima to be welcomed into loving family care. Just before his fifth birthday, he was embraced by a compassionate foster family, and his life began to change.

BREATHING EASIER

Arturo’s foster family immediately began addressing his individual needs. When he first arrived in their home, they noticed he had difficulty breathing. He constantly had a stuffy nose and snored and talked in his sleep. He also chewed with his mouth open because he couldn’t breathe through his nose.

With the help of a pediatrician and the family’s loving care, Arturo received the treatment he needed. In just a few weeks, he experienced remarkable improvement: his breathing became easier, he stopped snoring, and he could eat with his mouth closed.

As he settled into his new home, Arturo began to trust his foster family and feel more secure. Initially, he often spoke of fears, like the boogeyman, learned from his time in the orphanage. His family comforted and reassured him, helping him understand there was nothing to fear.

During his first weeks in family care, Arturo regularly asked if he would be sent back to the orphanage. He struggled to believe he was safe and secure. But with patience and love, his foster family assured him that this was his home. Over time, Arturo grew confident in their love and care.

SHARING HOPE

In just a few months with his foster family, Arturo has made incredible progress. Physically, his motor skills have improved, and he has learned to ride a bike—a new favorite activity. He is also thriving at school and showing significant emotional growth.

When Arturo first joined family care, he struggled to regulate his emotions, often reacting in anger with inappropriate behavior. With guidance from his foster family and The Hope Effect’s psychologist, Arturo has learned to express his feelings in healthy and constructive ways.

Arturo has also developed positive social skills. His foster family has been intentional in teaching him kindness and respect, and he is learning how to treat others how he wants to be treated. During a recent family trip, Arturo gave one of his favorite toys to another child who didn’t have one. This heartwarming act of sharing and generosity marked a major milestone in his development.

Today, Arturo knows he is safe, valued, and loved. Thank you for changing his life through the love of a family!

HOPE STARTS AT HOME THIS GIVINGTUESDAY

Tuesday, December 3 is GivingTuesday—a global day of generosity. This day, this movement, inspires people worldwide to give back and make a difference.

Last year, your generosity made history, setting a record for our biggest fundraising day ever. This year, we’re inviting you to help us reach our goal of $200,000 to change the lives of even more orphaned and vulnerable children.

And here’s some incredible news: on GivingTuesday, every donation will be doubled! A generous group of donors will match all gifts up to $100,000.

You don’t have to wait until December 3—our GivingTuesday donation site is open now. All donations, including early ones, will be matched.

Thank you for changing the lives of children like Arturo. You are making a significant difference across the globe, and we are so grateful. Together, we are changing the way the world cares for orphans…because hope starts at home.

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