Whatever the weather, 77-year-old Victor Chuto had to leave his little brick-and-straw home and climb a 350-metre hill with great difficulty to fetch water every day.

However, things changed for the better for this Ecuadorian, who has worked hard all his life. Thanks to contributions like yours, we have been able to carry out a project that has transformed the lives of more than 500 families in the community of Gaurón, in the province of Chimborazo. Like him, they now have access to running water in sinks installed in some homes and in communal washbasins.

“God bless you; I am very grateful for your support,” Chuto said.

In the Global South, thousands of elderly women and men live in poverty, loneliness and uncertainty. Your donations help Development and Peace ― Caritas Canada’s partners develop sustainable projects, including for critical water supply initiatives, in their communities.

This Christmas, help transform lives by making a generous donation.

The angel said to the shepherds, “I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people” (Luke 2:10).The Christmas season reminds us of the incredible gift of love and compassion. It calls us to bring the good news to our sisters and brothers in need.

Together, we can honour the aspirations of seniors around the world to age with dignity, maintain their independence and enjoy good health.

Access to water has helped Chuto and his community ensure food security by cultivating vegetable gardens that allow them to feed themselves and share the fruits of their harvests. Our projects also provide chickens, which are a daily source of nutritious eggs.

This Christmas, I invite you to join me in making a difference. Your donation brings hope to communities around the world for whom ageing would otherwise be an additional hardship.

Thank you for your prayers and generosity.

On behalf of all the people we support around the world, we wish you a Merry Christmas full of peace and goodwill.