Jingle bells. Santa Claus. Christmas music playing in the background while excited children unwrap presents and parents smile at their laughter and squeals.

The scene above could be played out in countless homes throughout the world. This time, however, it’s a glimpse into a different world, one that most of us have never seen. It’s Zambiza, the city dump here in Quito. Over 2200 people are here for a little Christmas cheer, and gifts for their children that they could never buy, and a gift of staples that will stretch their meager food budget just a little farther this month. It’s Cutuclagua, with living conditions so appalling that we would simply rather not think about it. It’s Argelia Alta, where one out of two mothers is raising her children alone and wondering how she’s going to make it through tomorrow. Or maybe it’s La Comuna, where pre-natal classes, marriage classes and micro business training are trying desperately to change lives, and give future generations a chance.

This year over 6000 people here in Ecuador alone came to the Christmas parties sponsored by Extreme Response. We had 58 volunteers from all over the world fly in to help, with countless others standing behind them. From here in Ecuador, over 250 people came forward to reach out and help their fellow man. The same scene was played out all over the world as ER partners stepped out to bring hope to those living in the most extreme situations. People ravaged by AIDS, famine, war, natural disasters. The situation may be different, but the face behind the pain is the same, no matter where you are.

These are the untouchables. The outcasts of society, living in the most extreme situations possible. Living in extreme situations really isn’t living at all. it’s existing. And it hurts. This year we here at ER have tried to bring hope and love to these people. We couldn’t do what we do without the support of you, our partners. We wish you and yours a Merry Merry Christmas and a Wonderful New Year.

I’m gonna show you love in every language. I’m gonna speak with words that need no form. I’m gonna give you what you’ve never had before.

- Jars of Clay - Show You Love

A new medical clinic opened its doors on December 8th in the Quito City Dump. This is a joint effort between ER and Hospital Vozandes of Quito. The clinic is open every Friday. Those living and working at the dump are thrilled to have available medical care.