In a world filled with challenges, there are always opportunities to offer support and encouragement to individuals embarking on a new path. Over the course of three consecutive weeks, HAPI-Bulacan led by Mutya Valenzuela, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of HAPI, in collaboration with GO Humanity through its food security program, organised feeding programs for the residents of Barangay Pinagbakahan in the City of Malolos, Bulacan.
It all began when the Brgy. Pinagbakahan Health Center organised a brief educational session for expectant mothers on August 23. The session, led by NDP DOH Nurse Josephine Razona Santiago and RHM Midwife Ma. Sylvinia Valerio, aimed to inform pregnant women about what they should anticipate during their pregnancy. The class covered various topics, including the necessary preparations that pregnant women should make, as well as the vitamins and nutritious foods they should incorporate into their diets. Additionally, the session emphasised the significance of breastfeeding newborns for up to two years and taught attendees how to store breast milk and its freezer shelf life. To conclude the event, HAPI-Bulacan provided a meal of rice porridge and bread to the 50 attendees, volunteers, and staff members in attendance.
A week following the event on August 23, HAPI National, in collaboration with GO Humanity, provided sopas (soup) and bread to children. With the start of the school year approaching, it is essential to ensure that children have the necessary nourishment to stay energetic and prepared for their classes.
Lastly, HAPI-Bulacan also established a mobile soup kitchen. With the looming threat of numerous typhoons, it becomes crucial to acknowledge that many individuals may find themselves unable to go out to purchase supplies, thanks to flooding and downpours. Furthermore, individuals will encounter difficulties in cooking, either because of the increasing prices of staple foods or being affected by inclement weather. In light of these challenges, HAPI made the decision to extend a helping hand to those in need. A total of approximately 127 residents were provided with nourishing noodle soup and bread during this initiative.
“Today, our country, the Philippines, is experiencing high prices on our staple food, rice. 55 pesos is already expensive as most Filipinos eat rice three times a day. This is why feeding programs are essential these days,” Ms. Valenzuela shared. “We hope to continue this program as we believe that every human deserves a plate of nutritious and balanced meals.”
During these three consecutive weeks, a range of emotions unfolded, and with each passing week, fresh challenges emerged. It remains vital to extend assistance during such times, as it serves as a tangible demonstration of support and encouragement to those facing obstacles every day.
We extend our sincere gratitude to GO Humanity and their food security program for generously supporting our volunteering efforts. We would also like to express our appreciation to NDP DOH Nurse Josephine Razona Santiago and RHM Midwife Ma. Sylvinia Valerio for dedicating their time to educating pregnant women on essential steps and information. Your contributions are truly valued and make a significant difference.
