Staff Blog
Most people get a "watered-down" version of Cebu when they come as tourists. Some only see what the tour guides want them to see. Some fly into the airport on the neighboring island of Mactan, but never cross the bridge that connects it with Cebu City. They experience the five star ambiance of the lush resorts and rub shoulders with wealthy people and well-trained staff who pamper them, but they never observe the realities of life in this Third World city. They are sanitized from the poverty, the pollution and the suffering of people in our city.
Visitors to CSC also get an abbreviated version of the story of the ministry. Although we show them our facilities and let them meet our staff and, when appropriate, some of the kids, we aren't able to give them the bigger picture. They see our wonderful homes and get a sense for the quality of care that our children receive. They visit our school and learn about the education that we provide. And they often have questions answered about where our children come and how they can help us.
But there is so much that goes on behind the scenes at CSC that is not apparent to visitors, even if they stay for more than a few days. They probably don't see the efforts of the social workers, child development team, teachers, nurses, therapists and other personnel who make it possible for us to bring children in and provide them with the comprehensive care that they require. Efforts like these:
- Social workers out in the field, working with birth families and gathering information needed for procuring birth documentation, or processing referrals;
- Meetings, meetings, meetings. There are at least ten meetings every day, both formal and informal, involving child care workers, house parents, counselors, therapists, office staff, social work and child development teams, school faculty and security and maintenance workers. These meetings involve financial planning, behavioral issues and updates, strategizing difficult case management issues, and sitting down with people from other agencies, both private and governmental, to advocate for our children;
- Nurses bringing children to labs, doctors' offices and clinics for medical assessment and care;
- Counselors meeting with children to discuss issues from their past or difficulties they may be having at CSC;
- Workers meeting with house parents to discuss problems in the home;
- Team-building activities, staff development and training that aims at making CSC a better place for the children who live here.
- Office staff handling the payroll, purchasing, banking, bill paying and other financial management tasks that are essential to keep things running smoothly;
- The work of transporting these workers to accomplish these tasks, and to get children to school or to doctors or dentist appointments. Our fleet of 10 vehicles is constantly being used to support the many activities and appointments that are needed.
- And, while they may get a sense for the financial needs of a program like ours in Cebu, they don't see the constant fundraising and promotional efforts going on in Minnesota through our stateside office. They don't know of the decisions being made by families and individuals to give generously and sacrificially to CSC for the care of the children, the same ones that they are observing on our playground, at the supper table or marching off to school.
We are thankful for each person who makes a contribution to the ministry here in Cebu, back in MN and around the world. People like you. I wish you could each be recognized by those who lead the tours here at CSC, because you help make the good things that they see possible.
Safety and Security: The Importance of Fire Drills
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Celebrating Buwan ng Wika and 26 Years of Cebu Children of Hope School
Cebu Children of Hope School came alive recently with the vibrant colors, sounds, and spirit of Filipino culture. It was culmination and celebration of Buwan ng Wika (language month), and the celebration also marked the school's 26th anniversary. The theme, "Filipino: Wikang Mapagpalaya," resonated deeply with everyone, reminding us of the power of our language to free and unite us as a people.
Festivities began with anticipation as students from all levels—kindergarten to grade 6—prepared to showcase their talents. Each performance reflected a deep love for the Filipino heritage. From energetic folk dance and soulful singing of classic Filipino songs to heartfelt recitations of poetry and creative interpretative dances, the students' efforts shone brightly.
Our beautifully decorated stage, set in a barrio fiesta theme, added a festive backdrop that enhanced every performance. One of the day's highlights was a surprise performance by the teachers of CCHS. With ukuleles and guitars in hand, we serenaded the crowd with beloved Filipino folk songs like "Bahay Kubo," "Si Felimon," and "Paru-Parong Bukid." The music filled the room, and the joyful expressions on the students' faces were priceless. It was a moment of unity and nostalgia, where generations celebrated our shared culture.
Out in the courtyard awaited a feast of traditional Filipino food. The tantalizing aroma of crispy "lechon baboy" paired with puso (hanging rice) filled the air. Students lined up eagerly to savor the flavors of home—refreshing buko juice, taho, and calamansi juice to cool down from the sun, and delectable treats like chicharon, buko pie, ice cream, empanadas, lanzones, watermelon, and the always-tasty customary lumpia and dynamite chili lumpia. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, chatter, and an unmistakable sense of community and, reinforcing the bonds that tie us as a community and reminding us of the beauty and freedom found in our language and culture.
Here's to many more years of celebrating our heritage, language, and shared dreams at Cebu Children of Hope School. To all of our supporters in this ministry, a big thank you for being a part of this incredible journey!
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Beyond Clinics
On behalf of our Medical Department....
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." — Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)
Everything begins with God and flows from Him. Each of us is a vital part of His divine plan, placed in this moment in history for a purpose.
From the beginning, it was a challenge to find a doctor willing to step out of their clinics or hospitals to visit our children and dedicate the time needed to check on each of them. But God, in His perfect timing, gave us an extraordinary physician whose heart was indeed with the kids. For the first time in CSC's history, the medical department successfully conducted an Annual Physical Examination of all the residents. In collaboration with the CSC medical team, the physician conducted thorough check-ups on all the residents, addressing major and minor concerns. This was a great gift from our Almighty God! We also thank God for the joyful dedication of our medical staff, who, with their unwavering commitment, assisted the doctor in this vital mission.
One of our beloved long-term residents, who joyfully received care from the doctor, stands as a powerful testament to the impact of our work. Their joy and health clearly reflect the importance of our mission and the need for continued support.
These playful kids patiently waited and cooperated well as the doctor checked on them during their turn, a testament to their understanding of the importance of their health and well-being.
This momentous achievement reminds us that God's plans for us are always good, even when the journey seems complicated. Just as Jeremiah 29:11 assures us, God has a purpose and a plan that brings hope and a future. Through His provision of a compassionate physician and a dedicated medical team, He has shown His care for every child in our shelter. He answers and provides for every need, even our seemingly impossible prayers. As we reflect on this milestone, we are reminded that when we trust in His timing and purpose, God faithfully provides for every need, big or small, in ways beyond our expectations.
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Health Does Matter
The Cebu Children of Hope School (CCHS) recently observed Nutrition Month. In her opening greeting, Mrs. Criselda Tabra, our school principal, encouraged everyone to take good care of our bodies by eating a balanced diet and staying healthy. One of the CSC nurses then led a discussion and offered advice on leading a healthy lifestyle.
Next up was Zumba! Moving our bodies is another approach to maintaining our health. Both the teachers and the students had a great time dancing. Then, our ever-enthusiastic coordinators guided the students and staff through a series of engaging games. Every student enjoyed the opportunity to take part, and those who correctly identified the answer received prizes. Then came one of the most anticipated parts of the program: the announcement of the Nutrition Month coloring contest winners. Way to go, guys, and enjoy your prizes!
The last part of the program included eating nutritious foods beside the courtyard. Most students enjoyed it, while others were trying to finish their share. What a fun way to commemorate Nutrition Month.
The program and activities were only an hour-long program, yet somehow they made an impact on everyone present at that moment. The experience was also one way of letting our students know that the people around them value their health and well-being. A huge "thank you" to everyone at CCHS and CSC who works hand in hand to ensure our children's good health. And as adults serving these children, we also must stay healthy in all aspects.
So, what is the ideal thing to do to be able to achieve a healthy lifestyle? This is one of the most common questions that most of us ask when we aim to live longer and happier. Well, the answer depends on how determined someone is to stay healthy. First, stay positive, then feed yourself in healthy ways. And the list goes on and on. What about you? What is your definition of being healthy? Are you doing things that promote good health physically, socially, financially, emotionally, mentally, and most importantly, spiritually? What a great reminder it is to start evaluating how we are doing as stewards of our bodies and our whole lives. The good thing is that it is not too late to start living healthy lives. So, what are you waiting for?
Start now!
As Bonnie Pfiester says, "Today is your day to start fresh, to eat right, to train hard, to live healthy, and to be proud." Bethany Johnson also says, "Our body is an incredible gift that only we can steward. Care for your body can be fun—not a burden or a 'should'—but a daily and empowering project of love for yourself and an expression of gratitude for God's wonderful work. That's you!"
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