Dear friends,
I’ve recently returned from a visit with Sisters Anne, Grace, Leonie and Donna (sgs) in the Philippines and I was reminded once again of the extraordinary strength and dignity within the communities we serve.
Seeing our programs in action — talking with staff, local volunteers, women, and children — affirmed just how thoughtful and high-quality the Sisters’ initiatives are, and how deeply they are changing lives.
One of the most moving moments of the trip was meeting four graduates of the Sisters of the Good Samaritan Kinder School who are now tertiary qualified and employed. These young women began their journey with us as small children. Today, they are capable and confident professionals. Watch their video here >>>
When I asked about the graduates hopes for the future, I expected to hear ambitions of career progression or personal milestones. Instead, each of them spoke about wanting to provide stable food, education and safe housing for their families. Not one spoke first about herself. Their aspirations were grounded in care, responsibility and gratitude. They also expressed a strong desire to give back to the Sisters’ programs that once supported them.
One graduate is already doing exactly that — volunteering at the Outreach Centre and speaking with new scholarship students about perseverance and hope. She is leading by example, quietly showing the next generation what is possible.
Our food security program is also thriving. Last year alone, we provided regular meals to approximately 450 children, residents of squatter settlements, three times per week; 70 seniors and 150 vulnerable adults experiencing homelessness or extreme hardship were also offered weekly meals. A regular, nourishing meal brings dignity and stability and when you’re travelling with the outreach team in the food van – what you remember when you return home are the warm smiles and gratitude.
Our women’s skills training program continues to empower participants with practical and life-changing tools. There are 30 women currently undertaking the eight-month program, which includes structured sessions in cooking, baking, food preparation and food hygiene, candle-making, health education and small-business skills. Weekly gatherings build both confidence and community. In addition, one-off seminars provide computer literacy training and address important topics such as the risks and consequences of online addiction – a rising concern in the Philippines.
What stood out most during this visit was the scale of our programs and their integrity. These initiatives are thoughtful, sustainable and deeply relational. They are helping women and children move beyond survival toward independence and opportunity.
Thank you for walking alongside the women and children in the Philippines. Your generosity offers tangible benefits — brighter futures, stronger families and hope. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions about our ministries or ideas for growing our community of benefactors.
If you would like to donate to the Philippines, click here.