This March, InfoTrust employees from the Cebu, Philippines office embarked on a heartfelt mission to provide sustenance and support to the most vulnerable members of our community. With the simple yet nourishing dish of rice porridge as our centerpiece, we set out to feed 500 children in need. This outreach program was not just about filling empty stomachs; it was about demonstrating care, solidarity, and the power of collective action to uplift those facing adversity.
Preparation for this significant endeavor began two weeks ahead of time. As we partnered with Rise Above Foundation, we coordinated and planned the activity by providing an amount to purchase the ingredients to be used for the rice porridge. The organizers also helped in providing the ideal location and lent us the kitchen for the whole preparation. On the day of the event, our team converged in the kitchen, ready to turn bags of rice into comforting bowls of porridge that would bring warmth and sustenance to children in our community.
The atmosphere in the kitchen was one of bustling activity and camaraderie as employees who volunteered chopped vegetables, stirred pots, and tended to the simmering porridge. With each stir of the ladle, we infused the porridge with not only ingredients but also love, care, and the collective hope for a better future for every child we aimed to serve.
As the clock turned 5pm, our efforts shifted from cooking to serving as we prepared to welcome the children to our outreach site. Their eager faces reflected a mixture of anticipation and hunger, underscoring the importance of our mission.
As the children lined up, we served each one with a generous portion of rice porridge, topped with nutritious garnishes such as vegetables and protein. The smiles that lit up their faces upon receiving their meals were a poignant reminder of the impact of our collective efforts. In that moment, the simple act of providing a warm meal became a symbol of hope, care, and solidarity for the children and their families.
“Feeding 500 kids showed me how great it feels to help,” InfoTruster Nickky Ibarra said. “Seeing their smiles made everything worth it. It was more than just cooking; it was about giving them a good day!”
Throughout the afternoon, volunteers worked tirelessly to ensure that every child received a nourishing meal and felt valued and seen. Beyond providing food, our outreach program fostered a sense of community and connection, as volunteers engaged with the children, listened to their stories, and offered words of encouragement and support.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such a meaningful cause and deeply appreciate InfoTrust for making this impactful event possible,” Carlo Conde said. “Together, we’re nourishing both bodies and spirits, fostering a brighter future for these children.”
As the day drew to a close, we reflected on the impact of our outreach program and the significance of the simple yet profound act of sharing a meal. In serving 500 children with rice porridge, we not only nourished their bodies but also uplifted their spirits and demonstrated the power of compassion and collective action to create positive change in our community.
