August 24, 2023—I knew this day was not going to be an ordinary day. However, even with that awareness, I was not prepared for what unfolded.
As I stepped through the gates of the Missionaries of the Poor Orphanage, my heart swelled with anticipation and a touch of nervousness. Nothing could have prepared me for the profound impact that my first visit would have on me.
From a young age, I’ve been passionate about giving back to my community and making a positive difference in the lives of others. This was all thanks to my mother who was a dedicated public servant. However, after I graduated and made a career of my own, my opportunities to engage in such acts have dwindled.
Reigniting the Passion for Giving Back
It wasn’t until I joined InfoTrust where my desire to extend my efforts to be of service to the underprivileged was rekindled. On that special day—August 24, 2023—we went to a place that deeply touched my heart, a place I will forever cherish and feel immensely fortunate—the Missionaries of the Poor Orphanage in Cebu City, a haven for abandoned children and adults with special needs.
Discovering the Heart of the Orphanage
Upon our arrival, we were immediately greeted by the warm smiles of the dedicated staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to provide care and love to both children and adults. Their commitment to the cause was evident, and it immediately put me at ease.
The heart of the orphanage lies in both children and adults—each unique and precious in their own way. As I walked into the first-floor bedroom, where both kids and adults who are still physically able to eat solid food stay, my heart was gutted at the situation. I cannot believe that their families gave up these beautiful beings and that despite their challenging circumstances, they continue to radiate positivity and happiness.
The highlight of our visit was feeding the children, but before we could feed them, we had to carefully prepare their food by shredding and cutting it into smaller pieces since they have difficulty chewing. While doing this, I reflected on my life, on how lucky I am to be alive and able to be on the other side—the one feeding and preparing their food. It was both a privilege and an eye-opener, a grounding experience.
Feeding the children was a heartwarming experience, to say the least. With each spoonful, I couldn’t help but reflect on the resilience of these young and brave souls. Their physical and intellectual challenges did nothing to dampen their spirits or their appetite for life.
Communication Beyond Words
One of the things that struck me most was how effortlessly we communicated; despite them being unable to communicate verbally, you would still hear the laughter that filled the room. It was a reminder that love and compassion knows no barriers; it transcends words.
A Visit to the Second Floor
I, and a few members, had the chance to visit the quarters on the second floor of the building, where they house bedridden, as well as physically and mentally challenged children and adults. Unfortunately, they were not part of our feeding program as they require a special diet and need more care when being fed. I was left speechless; they have gone through so much in life at such a young age, some even as soon as they were born, yet there they were, still smiling, surviving, as if there’s no hint of pain at all. The youngest, a 4-year-old boy with hydrocephalus, just kept smiling at us and he would occasionally laugh as we played peek-a-boo with him. His laughter, so pure and genuine.
A Promise to Return: Leaving a Lasting Impact
My day at the Missionaries of the Poor Orphanage left an indelible mark on my heart. It was a humbling experience that served as a reminder of the privilege of health and opportunity that many of us take for granted, myself included. It made me appreciate the simple joys of life and the transformative power of empathy. It made me feel grateful that my company, InfoTrust, gave me the chance to experience this once again.
As we walked back through the gates, we couldn’t help but make a promise to return. The Missionaries of the Poor Orphanage isn’t just a place; it’s a beacon of hope and a testament to the incredible impact that a community can have when it comes together for a higher purpose.
My first time feeding abandoned children and adults with special needs at the Missionaries of the Poor Orphanage was an experience that touched my soul in ways I can’t find the words to fully express. It reaffirmed my belief in the importance of service and reminded me that the true measure of a society lies in how it cares for its most vulnerable members—a mission that InfoTrust advocates. This is a journey I’m excited to continue as I grow with the company. Together, we can make the world a kinder and more compassionate place, one small miracle at a time.
