AROUND 40 children living in slums made simple wishes, like getting materials they need for school.
Last Thursday, Mandaue City Hall officials and employees and entrepreneurs granted their wishes.
Through the “Adopt a Child: Make a Child’s Wish Come True” project, the children from Barangay Mantuyong received shoes, slippers, bags and other items.
Violeta Cavada, head of the City Social Welfare Services, said the children were made to write their wishes on a paper and the City looked for donors.
“The outpouring of support is overwhelming,” she said.
Seven-year-old Mark Justin got the bicycle he wished for from City Planning Officer Florentino Nimor Jr.
“Lipay kaayo ko (I’m very happy),” he said.
Other donors were Mayor Jonas Cortes, City councilors and department heads.
Establishments
The City also tapped the business sector. Business establishments that granted the children’s wishes included DIO Implant and Phils., Cermatex Manufacturing Corp., Three Sixty Pharmacy and M Talents.
Resources
“We assure that we are willing to share our resources to deserving children and families,” said Jerry Roa, president of the Mandaue City Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
City Interior and Local Government Director Jhoaden Lucero said the initiative is part of the program called the Medium Development Goals Family-Based Action for Children and their Environs in the Slums.
She said the program also grants livelihood skills trainings and financial assistance, parent-effectiveness seminars, among others.
Initiated by the Local Government Academy, the program also helps poor families get enrolled with the Philippine Health Insurance Corp.
“With every wish granted, we create moments of joy and bring hope to the children and their parents,” said Mayor Jonas Cortes in a message read by Councilor Demetrio Cortes Jr.