January 2026

By Chopan Trust Editorial Team “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.” — Isaiah 9:2 Christmas is a season of profound joy, yet for many families in Pakistan, it is a time that highlights the heavy burden of poverty. This year, Chopan Trust set out with a mission: to be the hands and feet of Jesus for the deprived and the needy. Thanks to your prayers and partnership, we didn’t just distribute gifts; we delivered the message that these children are seen, loved, and chosen by God. A Day of Heavenly Joy at Youhanabad On December 17th, the Renewal Center in Youhanabad was transformed into a sanctuary of celebration. We gathered 1,200 children from various Christian schools across Lahore—children who often go without, but whose spirits remain resilient. The atmosphere was electric with the Holy Spirit’s presence. The children took to the stage, performing beautiful Tableaus, heartfelt dramas, and joyful dances to Christmas carols. Seeing their faces light up as they celebrated the birth of our Savior was a reminder of why we do this work. Beyond the festivities, we addressed their spiritual hunger. Through the generous provision of Gideon Pakistan, every child received a New Testament with Psalms and Proverbs. We believe that while shoes protect their feet, the Word of God guides their path. Meeting Physical Needs with Dignity After a nourishing lunch, the moment everyone was waiting for arrived. Each child was gifted a brand-new pair of school shoes and a sturdy school bag. In the communities we serve, a pair of shoes is more than just footwear—it is a shield against disease and a symbol of dignity. A school bag is a promise of a future. For parents living in poverty, these essential items are often out of reach. To see 1,200 children leave with smiles of pure excitement was a testimony to God’s faithfulness. We also recognized that the mission is sustained by those on the front lines. More than 150 school staff members were honored with cash gifts and notebooks, acknowledging their tireless dedication to educating the next generation. Phase 2: Reaching the “Least of These” in the Brick Kilns Our mission didn’t end in Lahore. On December 20th, the Chopan Trust team launched Phase 2, traveling to the most remote and marginalized areas, including Kasur, Gujranwala, Multan Road, and Shanti Nagar Khanewal. We visited the Brick Kilns, places where the cycle of bonded labor and slave workers often keeps families trapped for generations. Here, the children are among the most deprived in society. They grow up in the dust of the kilns, their potential often overshadowed by the weight of their circumstances. By bringing shoes, bags, and the Christmas message to another 1,000+ children in these villages, we are breaking the spirit of despair. We are telling the children of bonded laborers that they are not forgotten. A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Partners As our distribution continues until the New Year, our hearts are full. We hear the gratitude of the School Principals and the whispers of “Thank You” from the children, but those thanks belong to you—our donors and partners. You have helped us turn a cold winter into a season of warmth. You have empowered the needy and brought light to the slaves of the kilns. Will you continue to stand with us?  The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step—and for these children, those steps are now taken in new shoes, with a Bible in their hand and hope in their heart. “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” — Matthew 25:40