HAPI-Zambales Launches Two Feeding Programs

By Angie Driskell
Ambassador, HAPI Junior

The HAPI-Zambales team is known for its bread-giving projects and feeding programs at local hospitals. Recently, they broke out of their routine and decided to reach out to a specific community. On October 9, 2022, in partnership with Atty. Tyrus Joshua Macaraeg and with the assistance of Ryan James Cape, SK Chairman of Brgy. Camiling in Zambales, the chapter conducted a feeding program for 120 children.

In the coastal areas of Sitio Talisay, Bgy. Camiling, Cabangan, Zambales, the rainy season has brought on many challenges for the fisher folk’s families. Their situation is already a constant struggle to get by, but the inclement weather has only made it more difficult to consistently have healthy meals available.

When asked how they chose this particular community for their event, Lead Convenor Van Catayong explained, “HAPI-Zambales chose the fisher folk community of Sitio Talisay because it is one of the poorest communities in the province. As we initiate the feeding program that would support the nutrition of kids in the area, we are planning to continue the project as often as we could and assist the families with the children’s nutrition.”

The event was a huge success and it was easy to see how much everyone enjoyed themselves and appreciated the effort. Everyone received a meal consisting of pancit bihon (Filipino rice noodles with vegetables), bread courtesy of Rabang’s Bakeshop, and lemonade. In addition to a delicious lunch and pleasant conversation, 50 children received storybooks to enjoy in their free time.

It is important to keep in mind that many fishing and farming communities work extremely hard, but all that hard work can be wiped out after one typhoon. As they provide us with goods that help us to feed our own families, we must extend a helping hand to them whenever possible.

Another successful feeding was conducted by HAPI-Zambales on October 28, 2022. This was part of GO Humanity‘s Food Security Program and took place at Alusiis Elementary School in Brgy. Alusiis, San Narciso, Zambales.

Rabang’s Bakery was in charge of preparing the pancit bihon and distributing them to the children at the school. A total of 110 pupils received packed meals and juice. 

This particular school was chosen because of its location. San Narciso is a fourth-class municipality in the province of Zambales, which means it can be considered as ‘moderately poor’. This classification is based on the average annual income of a municipality; unfortunately, this affects schools and children greatly.

Through the GO Humanity Food Security Program, it is possible to reach people in areas that would normally go unnoticed.