HAPI-Zambales successfully conducted a feeding program activity at Aningway-Sacatihan Elementary School Annex at Sitio Gala, Subic, Zambales last September 22, 2023. This was a remarkable event for everyone participating and volunteering as its impact could be immediately seen in the students’ and teachers’ smiling faces.

A majority of Aningway-Sacatihan pupils are indigents and come from a struggling community in the mountains of Subic. With the help of Garry, their associate lead convenor, they were able to connect with the community.

A total of 300 nutritious food packs were given to more than 250 delighted students, members of the school faculty, and other kids who live in the community. HAPI people and some volunteers enthusiastically gathered the kids for an organized food-giving part of the activity to make sure everyone got their share.

“The best part of the activity is that all the hard work we have put into it – from budgeting, outsourcing the cheapest food ingredients, cooking, packaging, delivering, and finally distributing the food packs – turned into smiles and happiness as they enjoyed their snacks,” Van Catayong, HAPI Zambales Lead Convenor, told us when asked about the atmosphere of the event.

This event was made possible by GO Humanity and their passion for helping communities and organisations like HAPI. The Zambales chapter of HAPI is also appreciative of their mission partners and an anonymous sponsor for their love and support in making this event a triumphant one.

Catayong highlights the importance of sponsors in the success of events like this. “It is very important that we were given aid from our international sponsor, GO Humanity because, in these uncertain times, it is hard for us volunteers who are also having financial difficulties,” he said.

They touched upon how lucky they are because a good friend of theirs from X, formerly known as Twitter, knew that they would conduct a feeding program and help with their finances. With this extra money, instead of 100 food packs, they were able to give out 300 food packs.

The future for communities like Sitio-Gala is a bright one through the continuous efforts of many people and volunteers who are dedicated and active in their pursuit of a brighter future where the youth are empowered.

“We need to encourage our kids to love to eat real foods – honest, nutritious, healthy food. They need to see us eating healthy by eating.”

– Karen Salmansohn