Buckner children living at the Buckner Children’s Village in Beaumont shared their gratitude during a Thanksgiving meal.

“So many times, our staff is on the receiving end of anger and rage,” said Greg Eubanks, director and team lead of Buckner in Beaumont. “But last night these children and teenagers expressed their gratitude to God and to you for the change He is making in their lives through your efforts. It's important for you to hear their voices.”

Read the words of some of our Buckner children:

“I want to thank God for loving me for who I am and blessing me to wake up and see a brand new day that he created and that I’ve not seen before. Thanks for my immediate and extended family at home and away from home. Thanks for being that forgiving God.”

“I’m thankful for my savior Jesus Christ, God’s mercy, and his grace and forgiveness. And for Buckner taking me back each time I did wrong. I’m thankful for my Grandmama for being with me every step of the way and for my friend helping me get through the rough times.”

“I’m thankful for being alive and to have a family as great as Buckner who cares for me.”

“I’m thankful for having a family at Buckner, and for [friends like] Amy and Laci. I’m thankful for my savior, Jesus.”

“I am thankful for everything Buckner has given me. Thank you so much.”

“I’m thankful for being alive and thankful for being here with somebody that loves me, and for my family and salvation.”

“I am thankful for life itself, and for my family at home and at Buckner.”

“I have a home.”

“I’m thankful for my family. I’m thankful for the support of others and their belief in me. I’m thankful for my health, for the air I breathe, for my motor functions and skills. I’m thankful for the clothes on my back, the roof over my head, and the food in my stomach. I’m just thankful that I’m alive.”

“I’m thankful for just being around people who care about me. I’m glad I’m going to school. I have a loving family here at Buckner.”

“I’m thankful for the love of God and for my Buckner family.”

“Remember me four years from now. I’m thankful for my mama, for the Lord saved her.”

“I’m thankful for Buckner taking me in when I needed them. Being on this earth. To know some of my staff. For knowing Jesus.”

“I’m thankful for having people that welcome me as family when my family isn’t around.”

“I’m thankful for having the life I live today.”