Looking Back in 2015 - Our Programs in ER Asia

Time Flies... And we are having so much fun!

(EXTREME RESPONSE MANILA CHILDREN'S HOME)

It seems yesterday when we officially launched the Manila Children’s Home, ER’s first in Asia. It has been almost two years already. Time flies indeed! And we are having so much fun. But it is more than just fun. It is pure joy! It is pure joy to see the amazing transformation in the lives of the ten (10) kids in the home. 

All of them are becoming healthier as the days go by. We have their pictures posted in one of the walls of the Home - their picture the first time we got them and beside it is their current one. You will immediately recognize the big change in their health and appearance. 

More than their appearance, we rejoice the most the change in their attitude and behavior. The once aloof and fearful are the most sweet and loving. 

They are now consistent honor students. In fact all of them finish the school year with awards and honors. Those who were bullies before now care the most. 

Yes, we are indeed having fun. This year, it so fun to watch the kids enjoy their many outdoor activities, such as the Children’s Home Camp, trip to the Mind Museum, movie viewing, just to name a few. For many of them, it was their first time. 

The fun of course won’t be possible without the hard working staff under the leadership of the couple John and Gela Basiwa, our Program and Executive Directors respectively. Through their tireless effort and sacrifices, our Children’s Home has received commendation and approval from the Department of Social Welfare and Development. 

GOLDEN HANDS

ER Asia's Livelihood Educational Program

It all started when Anne saw the unused sewing machines donated by Joshua’s cousin from Canada. She thought, “Why not use the sewing machines to teach some mothers in the church how to sew.” These mothers come from a very poor community and most of their time is spent either gambling or doing nothing at all. 

So Anne started with three mothers. She taught them how to make rags, a popular circular cloth in Manila which can be used for wiping, cleaning, as a pot holder, etc. 

Then Anne saw the need to go further that’s why she enrolled in a fashion school so she can teach the mothers how to make basic patterns. From rags, they ventured into making pillows, pillow cases, bags, short pants, curtains, etc. 

After a year, Anne started expanding the reach of the sewing program. She is now training 10 mothers. For 6 months, they will undergo training in sewing, cutting and pattern making, designing and crochet making to initiate income generating activities. 

After the training, each women will receive a sewing machine. Moreover, training materials required for cutting and sewing including papers, cloth, thread, scissors, and crochet accessories will be provided to them as a starter kit for their new enterprise. 

Now mothers from our partner organizations are waiting for their turn to be trained.