We made our way down a narrow path overgrown with vegetation. As we walked further from our vans, the mosquitoes started to bite. Children from a nearby village ran alone side us, until we disappeared into the woods. After a few minutes, we began to hear the sound of the river as we got closer to our destination: The Village of Silay. The trees stopped and we came to the clearing where the river rushed below. We made our way down the steep banks onto the small sandy beach. There is no bridge to Silay so we crossed on the bamboo raft made by the villagers. Two by two, we pulled ourselves across to the other side.
Danielle and Jess crossing the river
As we made our way up the bamboo hillside, we could hear the songs of the children getting louder. We finally made it to the Preschool and our hearts melted as they sang to us the songs they had prepared and recited all of Psalm 23. ICM currently has 38 operating Preschools. The students learn to ready, write and do simple addition and subtraction.
The Preschoolers singing and reciting Psalm 23
"Philippine statistics indicate that with each grade of education, the likelihood of living a life of poverty decreases. ICM's Preschool Plus program gives 25 vulnerable children a strong academic start. Two certified teachers prepare them for success in public school. Students receive a nutritious lunch and snack each day, a uniform and supplies. Parents also benefit from weekly classes in values, health care, and livelihood, and work together to prepare meals for the children." -ICM
It costs $5,000USD to sponsor one year-long Preschool in one of these poor neighborhoods.
Precious
.jpg)
No comments:
Post a Comment