Philippines: Oasis in the slums
Little John-Leonard watched his father dying of lung and liver cancer. Even at 4, he realised medical care was out of the question. He had known for months that something bad was coming. He had watched it with growing fear, as their shanty home was small and there was no where for his dad to hide the worsening symptoms. John Leonard's family lives in the slums of Cavite, Philippines. The family's income, literally pulled together from collecting empty bottles, didn't even stretch to adequate food let alone the luxury of a medical consultation.
Crossroads has sent two consignments of goods, including paint sets (pictured), to help equip this school in the slums of Cavite, Philippines.
As death approached, John Leonard's dad became desperate to secure some kind of future for his family. A new kindergarten was being set up in the area so, hiding his chronic illness, he volunteered to help with its renovation. In return, his little boy was given a place at the school: it was a chance to break out of the poverty cycle in an environment where too many children can find no life beyond survival on the streets. John-Leonard found the kindergarten a haven, not only from the perils of the local neighbourhood, but also in the struggle with his own grief. Once aware of his father's deterioration, his teachers played a pro-active role in helping the little boy cope, through counsel and support. His peers tried too. "They seemed aware of his suffering… They treated him kindly," one observed.
This kind of nurture is typical of the kindergarten. Its directors are committed to equipping their children not only with the academic skills that will make them employable, but also with the emotional nurture that will help them break free from the scars of life on the streets.
Crossroads has sent two consignments to help equip this school. Its budget is thinly stretched to cover costs, but a capital injection, such as Crossroads can provide through Hong Kong's generosity, can make their limited cash supply go much further.
The directors called in to our site on a recent visit to Hong Kong. Their goal was to thank us but we, in turn, want to pass on their thanks to you. It's a classic example of the way your giving changes lives that might, otherwise, be beyond hope.
