Thanks to everyone who supports our Christmas WonderFund or gave the gift of a Christmas celebration through the gift catalogue, the sky was the limit.
“They knew that they wanted to make these events extra special and unforgettable,” says Eunice, Tondo site director. They decided to throw two parties – one for sponsored children, and one for all the children in the nutrition program. Weeks in advance, planning committee announced two contests for sponsored children: the most Christmas tree and ‘Parol’ made from recycled materials. Parols are a traditional lantern decoration, ubiquitous in the Philippines at Christmastime.
“The children were eager to showcase their creativity and resourcefulness,” Eunice says.
On the day of the sponsored children’s party, “the children presented their prepared dances and songs, participated in games, and enjoyed a meal.” But the question on everyone’s mind was: who won the contests?
To a rapt audience, site staff announced the winning Chalice family circles: Innovative had made the most beautiful tree, and Persuasive had made the most creative parol. “It was heartwarming to see the joy and pride on their faces as they received their prizes,” says Eunice.
On the day of the nutrition program Christmas party, children make the journey in from neighbourhoods scattered across Manila.
“The atmosphere was filled with joy and excitement as the children enjoyed the games, performances, magic show, and food prepared for them,” Eunice says. Each boy and girl got to take home a ‘Noche Buena’ package – a hamper with all the necessary ingredients for the traditional Christmas Eve family dinner.
“These events were more than just Christmas parties,” says Eunice, “they were moments of joy, love, and hope that will stay with these children for a long time.”
“The children went home with happy memories, new friends, and gifts to share with their families.”
