I Am With You: Mateo’s Story of Healing

4-year-old Mateo* didn't have any reason to trust adults. Neglected, exposed to substance abuse, and at risk of sexual exploitation, Mateo finally entered our care.

Mateo struggled to adapt. He cried continuously, and it was difficult for him to play. Mateo couldn't even make eye contact with his caregivers. His trauma was so heavy. He had no hope.

It was clear Mateo couldn't continue on this path. Our team was determined to unlock hope for Mateo. Like Jesus's promise in Matthew 28:20, our team promised Mateo one thing: Even on the hardest days, they were with him. They weren't leaving.

Gloria is the caregiver who stepped in for Mateo. Mateo called Gloria "Abuela," or "Grandma." Gloria saw Mateo's protective exterior and knew she had to be creative to break through the walls he had built. Rather than trying to force him to open up, Gloria decided to gain his confidence in a different way: through play.

Playing with Gloria, holding her hand, looking into her eyes—these were the first moments Mateo felt safe. The first moments he experienced the love of Christ.

As Gloria met Mateo's needs and addressed his trauma, she showed him he was safe with her. And, at the end of each day, Gloria would promise, "I have to go, but tomorrow I'll be with you." She always kept her promise.

Today, Mateo plays with friends, trusts his caregivers, and can build secure and meaningful bonds, especially with the in-home "Abuelas." Mateo still has a journey of healing ahead of him, but we know God has prepared every step.

So many children just like Mateo have experienced horrific trauma. We are committed to advocating for all children we encounter—because no child should be alone.

"Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:20

*Name and photo changed to protect privacy.