The property nestled between the busy streets of Manila housed two dozen children. Last August 20, a team from RareJob Philippines spent an afternoon playing and entertaining them. They were like the other kids you meet: spunky, creative, and charming once past their initial shyness. They played games with us and giggled at our jokes. The only telltale sign that separates them from the normal kids we are used to are the masks they had to wear.
Bahay Aruga welcomes children from all over the country who need a place to stay as they receive outpatient cancer treatment at the Philippine General Hospital which is just a few minutes’ walk away.
For over a week, the staff contributed through monetary donations to help reach the budget for the care package to be given to each child. This package consists of products for hygiene and care. Also, our team prepared games and prizes for the kids and their guardians.
Personally, the afternoon with these children was humbling. It was a gentle reminder for everyone that a simple act of kindness can go a long way for those in need.
Georgette Dela Rama
Georgette is an art graduate whose recent idée fixe is the late 19th-century Philippine history. She likes beaches, pop culture, history, and books. She can spend entire weekends in a cocoon made out of a blanket to read or watch films.
