Written by: Ate Ren dela Cruz, Board Member
With the season of giving so greatly celebrated in the country, it is no surprise that there are many individuals who reach out to those who need help the most. But it creates an extra tug in our hearts when our sponsors remember children in hospitals, as the kids and families confined in the halls of the hospitals instead of their own homes during the holidays, are also most in need of joy and cheer. That was why we were delighted when ate Grellyn got in touch to celebrate and have a thanksgiving event with 30 kids of Ospital ng Makati last January 13.
It was an exciting day ahead with ate Grellyn and the rest of our volunteer ates and kuyas having prepared exciting surprises for the children. We began the event by asking our volunteers to spend some time getting to know the children, and even some of the parents and guardians they were with. Next up, as we believe art feeds the heart, was an exciting workshop courtesy of ate Mhazy. That day, she taught the children to make animal puppet art! It was a delight to see the kids intent in creating their own unique puppets, and the added help of our passionate volunteers made the art even more meaningful.
Our ates and kuyas also wanted the kids to hear stories to fuel their imagination, so we called Kuya Rich for a Story Telling portion – which the kids and kids at heart excitedly paid attention to throughout. Kuya Rich’s antics got everyone laughing and giggling, which is a welcome sight to see amidst the sicknesses they were dealing with upon ushering in the new year.
After all the meaningful activities, it was mealtime and an added opportunity for the volunteers and kids to talk to each other. To cap off the amazing time we had, we captured the joy via a group photo, and asked our kids to give warm hugs to their ates and kuyas who spent the day with them. Ate Grellyn also made sure to give additional comfort to the kids by giving each of them pillows – something we are sure the kids will cherish.
Thank you to ate Grellyn and the rest of our volunteers! It was a privilege to serve the kids with you. May you continue to give back and bring more smiles to those in need!
