One of the absolute highlights of Pasuk's program is the purchase of necessary school supplies for the new school year. The gratitude radiating from the faces of both parents and children speaks volumes. Why is this so special? Without these materials, the children simply cannot attend school. Although education is free in Cebu, parents must pay for the teaching materials, uniforms, shoes and other supplies themselves. For many families, this is often not feasible, especially if they have several children. The consequences are huge. Without school supplies, there is no school. No school means no diploma, no job opportunity and no future. Read more below the video.
Children come with one of their parents to the downtown department store. Each child gets to choose the items they need within the available budget. With their basket in hand, they walk along the tables and shelves to gratefully receive the school supplies. Education is an essential part of the Pasuk vision for a reason. Education is crucial to a stable future in Cebu. Life in this city is hard, and the gap between rich and poor is huge. In many families supported by Pasuk, we experience the hopelessness of life. Every day they worry about whether there will be enough food, or whether medical expenses can be paid. For many children, this means that their lives revolve primarily around survival. By providing necessary school supplies, we give these children the chance to receive an education, which is the key to gaining skills and finding employment. It is heartwarming to speak with former Pasuk children. They show us full of joy and gratitude that they were able to complete their studies and even find jobs. These stories began years ago with a basket full of sponsored school supplies, a basket whose contents make a world of difference! Watch the video above or the photos below.
