BCM Sto. Domingo and West Avenue Baler Branches Enrich Lives of Underprivileged Children in Caingin Bayanihan Elementary School
By: Martina Lucero
Last October 14, 2023, Caingin Bayanihan Elementary School in Meycauayan, Bulacan, became the beneficiary of a GoBeyond Communities Initiative. This collaborative effort by UnionBank volunteers from BCM Sto. Domingo Branch and West Avenue Baler Branch, aimed to enrich the lives of underprivileged children by focusing on their education, nutrition, and well-being.
The initiative, proposed by Junior Branch Ambassador Karlo Villavicencio, drew inspiration from his own journey as a public school graduate. Motivated by the desire to uplift more lives like his, Karlo and his co-employees decided to address critical areas of needs faced by the children in the community.
Recognizing the scarcity of nutrition, basic medicine, and preventive healthcare among these children, the initiative provided comprehensive support. Tools and seedlings were distributed for the school garden, aiming to secure a sustainable source of food. Basic preventive medicines, sourced from licensed pediatricians, were also distributed to address common illnesses like flu and cough.
Essential food items and cooking utensils were also supplied for the feeding program, including ingredients for lugaw, sopas, and champorado. Lastly, each beneficiary was given a rainy-day kit containing a reusable water bottle and hygiene items to help in the prevention and spread of viruses.
During the turnover ceremony, UnionBank volunteers, joined by the school teachers, arranged a program filled with intermission numbers and inspirational speeches. The school principal expressed gratitude for the Bank’s support, noting that it was the first time such a significant contribution had come from a banking institution. The smiles on the faces of the children, and the expressions of gratitude from the parents and teachers were a testament to the initiative’s impact.
Through GoBeyond Communities, UnionBank reaffirms its commitment to corporate social responsibility. By addressing fundamental needs and fostering a spirit of community, GBC exemplifies the Bank’s dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those it serves.