Manila, 3 September 2011 – True to the adage that “no man is an island”, several Qplus employees visited the Virlanie Foundation’s Mother and Child Home, where they spent an afternoon with mothers and babies who were victims of unfortunate circumstances.
The heart-warming activity held last September 3, 2011 was an extraordinary and humbling experience for many. Qplus employees took the opportunity to care for, feed and play with the babies, as well as to connect with some of the mothers to get to know their stories.
Most of the babies in the Mother and Child Home were abandoned. One particular child was even left in the cold by his mother inside a passenger ship. All of them had their own story of loss and neglect, but the Qplus employees were dedicated to bringing joy and love to these children.
“I feel very blessed that I participated in this activity. It’s just an overwhelming experience to give joy to these children. You feel that they appreciate it very much when you carry and show them affection. After all, those are what they long for the most,” said Michelle Ortiz, Logistics Officer & Shipping Executive.
After the day’s activities, most of the employees expressed their intent of returning to the shelter to spend more time with the mothers and the children. Beyond an afternoon of engaging with residents, Qplus staff also donated necessities such as diapers, bottle sterilisers, feeding bottles and food to aid the home in its noble mission.
Established in 1992, Virlanie is one of the largest, private, non-sectarian child-caring institutions in Metro Manila, Philippines, with 12 temporary shelters and homes all over the area. While it primarily looks after the welfare of young children and teens, the foundation has also brought several young, unwed and expectant mothers under its care.
Virlanie was chosen as a partner of RYTHM Foundation because its mission is very much in sync with one of RF’s pillars – promoting the health and well-being of those in need, particularly children. The visit was organised by the CSR Committee of the Philippine office as part of the company’s CSR activities, reflecting this year’s theme, “We Care”.
