ILOILO City's community kitchens, which operated close to three months with the help of donors, provided almost two million meals to Ilonggos who have been affected by the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.

A total of 1,903,036 meals were served to residents in 180 barangays from March 21 to June 15.

Mayor Jerry Treñas thanked donors and volunteers for successfully running a total of 240 Uswag (progress) Community Kitchens (UCKs) set up in daycare centers and barangay halls.

They included 232 volunteers in Jaro, 223 in City Proper, 144 in Molo, 211 in La Paz, and 89 each in Lapuz and Mandurriao.

These were manned by Supplemental Feeding (SF) workers, volunteer Blue Angels coordinators and daycare workers who prepared and delivered meals either for breakfast, lunch or snacks.

"Considered as one of the most effective initiatives of City Government, UCKs were activated with the goal that 'no Ilonggo will be left hungry.' We thank the persons behind this initiative especially to Mayor Jerry P. Treñas, and his daughter Raisa," point person Mary Grace Centino said.

Centino, who is also manager of Public Employment Service Office (Peso), partnered with the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) that oversees the SF and daycare workers.

The UCKs also extended help to needy stranded individuals and to Badjaos.

The total distribution averaged 25,000 meals and could reach up to 30,000 meals in one day.

"In this time of global health crisis, let us not forget to show the value of humanity through kindness and generosity within our hearts. Indeed, it is better to give than to receive. We are united as one Iloilo City," said Centino. (PR)