2025 Christmas Project: Lina's Story

December 17, 2025 - Hiba Haddad

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The 2025 NCM Christmas Project will provide hope for children in Jordan and Lebanon through Nazarene schools that provide more than just education—they offer a chance to grow, heal, and thrive.

In Jordan, although 97% of elementary-aged children are enrolled in school, dropout rates remain a concern as students grow older—especially among those from low-income families or those who are refugees. In Lebanon, a variety of barriers to education surround refugee children who are often denied enrollment in traditional schools due to discrimination, language barriers, and financial hardship. At the same time, the country’s ongoing economic crisis and persistent security threats affect nearly all students, making it nearly impossible for many families to afford tuition and uniform fees.

To meet these needs, Nazarene schools in the Middle East serve students from kindergarten through high school—many of whom are refugees from Syria and Iraq, displaced by war and violence. The schools offer an affordable, quality education alongside spiritual care that includes daily scripture reading, prayer, and weekly chapel services, creating a place where learning and faith go hand in hand.

The local community, including nearby Nazarene churches, plays a key role in supporting the school community, offering prayer, emotional care, and a chance to grow in faith. Often, teens enrolled in the schools become regular church youth group attenders due to the connection to the school. Some families of students also receive food vouchers, psychological support, medical care, and other wholistic assistance through local churches.

When you give to the 2025 NCM Christmas Project, you’ll open doors for children from across the Middle East to receive an education, build lasting relationships, access healthcare, and grow in faith. Your generosity makes it possible for these children to experience God’s love and care, giving them the hope of a brighter, stronger future.

Will you help unbox hope and give the gift of learning this Christmas?
Learn more and give today.


LINA’S STORY

Lina* is an 8-year-old student in 3rd grade at a Nazarene school in Jordan. She lives with her parents and one younger sister in a small home. When Lina first began attending the school, her parents were facing difficulties in their relationship, which deeply affected her.

 

Lina*, a student at the Nazarene school

 

Lina often came to school wearing unclean clothes, sometimes without having brushed her hair, and she frequently seemed sad and withdrawn. Despite these challenges, her teachers surrounded her with love and care. They brushed her hair, helped her feel comfortable, and encouraged her every day.

Slowly, Lina began to feel safe and supported at school. She started smiling more, participating in class, and enjoying time with her teachers and classmates. Today, Lina is thriving. She is an excellent student who loves her teachers deeply. When asked who her best friend in the class is, Lina quickly answers, “My teacher!”

 

Lina's hair, braided by her teachers

 

Inspired by the care she received, Lina has begun helping other students in her class—sharing the same kindness and support that was shown to her. She dreams of continuing to grow, learning as much as she can, and always spreading love and care to others.

*Names are changed for protection.