Boy's shattering letter to Santa from domestic violence shelter
A young boy has written a heartbreaking letter to Santa from a domestic violence shelter.
Blake, seven, lives in the shelter with his mum, who found the letter in his backpack a few weeks ago, SafeHaven of Tarrant County posted on Facebook alongside an image of the note.
“We had to leave our house,” Blake wrote.
“Dad was mad. 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.”
Blake tells Santa that although he is safe in the shelter, he is still nervous and doesn’t want to talk to the other children.
He then asks if Santa is still bringing presents for Christmas, explaining he and his mum have none of their possessions with them.
“Can you bring some chapter books, a dictionary and a compass and a watch?” Blake asked.
“I also want a very, very, very good dad. Can you do that too?”
Within 10 hours of SafeHaven sharing the letter, the post had amassed more than 600 likes and thanks to donations, Blake is getting “exactly what he ask 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,” SafeHaven said.
However, some readers questioned if the Facebook post could place Blake and his mum in danger.
“Victim safety has been our priority for over 40 years, and we would never compromise that through a social media post or otherwise,” staff said.
“Blake and his mom are safe! Thank you for your concern for his family.”
Commenters also urged others wanting to help out to contact their local women’s shelter and ask what items they are in need of.
“I remember spending a Christmas in a women’s shelter with my mom when I was 8 . I still remember and have the small jewellery box I was gifted that year it was a special Christmas because it meant safety & freedom,” one person wrote.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au
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