Christmas can begin with a simple gesture: offering care to those who haven't felt seen in a long time. December 20th, The Alliance of Mercy is holding another edition of Christmas for the Poor, a large open-air dinner for homeless people.

 This year, for the first time, the initiative will include a health action organized with volunteers from the field. Therefore, the community is calling on doctors, nursing professionals, students, and other individuals willing to put their knowledge at the service of the poorest.

More than just serving a meal, Christmas for the Poor is an opportunity to restore dignity, build bonds, and remind each person that they are loved by God.

Christmas for the Poor: a feast that goes beyond the meal.

Each year, around 1,500 to 2,000 people in vulnerable situations are welcomed to celebrate Christmas in an atmosphere of fraternity. The tables are prepared with... Plates, cutlery, and chairs, so that each brother can sit down, share the meal, and experience this moment with respect and dignity.

The program also includes Holy Mass, moments of prayer, praise, musical performances, and social activities. There are also tents offering personal care services such as haircuts and beard trims, as well as other welcoming initiatives.

For the Alliance of Mercy, every detail matters.. Sitting at the table, conversing without haste, offering a smile, or listening to a story are gestures capable of opening paths to hope.

Over the years, the mission has accompanied people who, through this closeness, have found the strength to seek new paths and leave the streets. These are stories that reveal how care and presence can be concrete signs of God's love.

Thalita Kum's mission: to evangelize in order to transform.

Christmas for the Poor is part of Thalita Kum Mission, This is an evangelizing initiative carried out by the Alliance of Mercy since 2001. Inspired by Jesus' call for a young girl to rise up, the mission brings the Gospel message to people living in situations of poverty, abandonment, and suffering.

In the days leading up to Christmas, missionaries and volunteers travel through streets, squares, favelas, hospitals, prisons, and areas of great social vulnerability, such as Cracolândia. In these encounters, they offer meals, listening, support, hugs, and the Word of God.

In 2025, more than 557 volunteers, coming from Rio de Janeiro, Belo Horizonte, and cities in the interior of São Paulo state, participated in this missionary experience.

The initiative is underpinned by a conviction that accompanies the charism of the Alliance: “"No one is so poor that they have nothing to give, nor so rich that they have nothing to receive."”

This Christmas, be present in someone's life.

Christmas for the Poor reminds us that charity is not limited to what we give, but also to how we approach each person. When someone finds a table prepared, receives care, and is recognized for their value in God's eyes, hope finds a place again.

On this December 20th, put your gifts at the service of your poorest brothers and sisters. Volunteer at the Christmas for the Poor and help bring not only assistance, but also welcome, dignity, and the love of Christ to those who need it most.

Health Volunteers: A Call to Care

In 2026, the Christmas for the Poor will take a new step with the organization of a health initiative. The proposal is to bring together people who wish to put their knowledge, experience, and time at the service of those who face so many difficulties in accessing care.

Professionals and students can register. Those interested in collaborating in the following areas:

• Medical care;
• Nursing and triage;
• Welcoming;
• First aid;
• Aesthetics and personal care, including haircuts and beard trimming;
• Support for the healthcare team.

The participation of each volunteer can make a difference. Attentive service, guidance, or respectful listening can mean a great deal to those living on the margins of society.

How to participate?

Those interested should fill out the form to guarantee their participation. The most important thing is to have a heartfelt desire to serve and to have knowledge in the healthcare field.  

REGISTRATION FORM  

Those who cannot participate in person can also contribute through donations via Pix: natal@misericordia.com.br. 

Follow the official social media accounts of the Alliance of Mercy and the application To check out the latest news and more information about the 2026 Christmas for the Poor.