This letter narrates the ugly face of domestic violence around the world. A seven-year-old boy Blake’s wish to Santa was to get an extremely good dad for Christmas. He was one of the victims of domestic violence. He was staying at a Texas domestic violence shelter. This letter was found by his mom in his backpack.
Blake told Santa: ‘We had to do all the chores. Dad got everything he wanted. Mom said it was time to leave and she would take us to a safer place where we don’t have to be scared.’
He added: ‘I’m still nervous. I don’t want to talk to the other kids.’
He also wanted some chapter books, a dictionary, a compass and a watch.
He asked Santa: ‘Are you going to come this Christmas? We don’t have any of our stuff here. ‘I also want a very very very good dad. Can you do that too?’
The photo of this handwritten letter was posted online by Safe Haven Tarrant County. It said the youngster’s father was ‘mad’. So the family was forced to flee to the safety center.
Later the shelter wrote ‘Thanks to your donations through Santa’s Sack, Blake is getting exactly what he asked for from Santa.
‘But with 117 women and children needing shelter this holiday season, we need your help to make sure they have a safe place to stay throughout December.’
When the post was shared hundreds of times, many people asked how they could help the family.
The shelter reassured well-wishers that both Blake and his loved ones were safe”
They further wrote: ‘We so appreciate everyone’s concern over the safety of Blake and his family. Victim safety has been our priority for over 40 years, and we would never compromise that through a social media post or otherwise. ‘Blake and his mom are safe! Thank you for your concern for his family.’
Well-wishers offered their help and shared their own stories.
One wrote: ‘Heartbreaking letter. Thanks for sharing’
Another added: ‘Just as I was having a really bad day at work and feeling sorry for myself I see this post. Puts things in perspective. I’m actually crying for this child but I am glad he is in a safe place for Christmas.’