This Christmas season in December 2025, Open Soul Foundation had the honor of partnering with Step By Step Foundation in Romania to bring something truly special to children living in orphanages. As part of our ongoing monthly outreach efforts, we sponsored a meaningful project centered around creating Treasure Chest Boxes, a beautiful initiative designed to help children preserve memories, celebrate their stories, and carry hope forward.

One of the greatest challenges for children growing up in institutional care is the lack of tangible memories. Many move from place to place, rarely having photos, keepsakes, or reminders of meaningful moments and relationships. Step By Step Foundation recognized this need and envisioned a way to help children build something deeply personal, a memory treasure chest they can keep for life.

A professional volunteer photographer visited each children’s home, capturing authentic, joyful moments. These photos were later printed and transformed into scrapbooks, where the children added handwritten notes, stickers, and decorations. Each page became a reflection of their journey, celebrating friendships, mentors, caregivers, and the people who have walked alongside them. These albums will serve as anchors, reminding them of love, belonging, and the beautiful chapters of their lives.

Beyond the creative project, the weekend was filled with intentional connection. The team gathered around a fire to share the true story of Christmas, not centered on gifts or glitter, but on the birth of hope. They reflected on how Christ’s coming reminds us that no situation is beyond redemption, and that even in moments that feel heavy, hope still exists.

As Scripture reminds us,

"The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light" (Isaiah 9:2, NKJV).

This verse felt especially true as we watched these children experience warmth, joy, and the light of love shining into their lives.

The children baked cookies, sang carols, and experienced an atmosphere that encouraged slowing down, being present, and savoring togetherness. In a world that constantly pushes us to rush and consume, this space invited them to rest, reflect, and simply be.

One of the most beautiful parts of the weekend was watching the children become givers themselves. They selected names and ages of children in the community who are less fortunate and prepared Christmas gift boxes for them. Some even donated their own belongings. With additional supplies provided, including sweets, hygiene items, and small gifts, they carefully assembled packages filled with love. These boxes will be delivered during a special Christmas in February celebration, extending the season of giving beyond December.

Step By Step Foundation’s mission goes far beyond a single weekend. Every week, they bring children from orphanages into family like environments where they learn life skills, build confidence, and experience stability. Just as importantly, they create memories, moments of joy and belonging that shape identity and healing.

At Open Soul Foundation, we believe transformation happens through connection, dignity, and hope. Partnering with Step By Step Foundation this December 2025 outreach was a powerful reminder that sometimes the greatest gifts are not things at all, but memories, presence, and love that lasts a lifetime. Open Soul Foundation will be here month after month, walking faithfully alongside these children and this incredible team.

As we continue this journey, we hold onto this promise,

"The Lord your God is in your midst, the Mighty One, will save" (Zephaniah 3:17, NKJV).

May every child know they are seen, loved, and never alone.

We are deeply grateful to everyone who made this possible and to the incredible team in Romania who continue to walk faithfully with these children. Together, we are building something beautiful, one memory at a time.

Open Soul Foundation was here.