By Albert Santoli | Project Director
Dear Supporters of AAI,
We are looking forward to a New Year of Hope supporting the children with cancer and families at the House of Hope! The cancer center is located at the Southern Mindanao Medical Center in the city of Davao in the Mindanao region of the Philippines. The special quality of this hospital is that it is the only such center providing life saving treatment for children free of charge in a population of 25 million in the southern Philippines.
In June, 2018, Asia America Initiative expanded its toy giving program at the House of Hope. Donations from our Global Giving donors, were used to provide toys and books shipped from the United States and to purchase more healing gifts from local markets. "These toys are gifts of love," says volunteer coordinator Mr. Pidot. "Positive morale and confident attitudes are the catalysts for healing in children who suffer from life threatening diseases."
In 2019, our goal is to provide a toy and book to each child as they arrive for their hospital each day. Our active partner, One World Institute [OWI], emphasizes the integrated psychology in healing and the benefits of a child feeling loved. Dr. Yolanda, founder of OWI, is a child education specialist. "Children are naturally hesitant and often afraid when they arrive -- as are their families," she observes. "A simple toy can make all the difference in the world to a young child. A cuddly stuffed animal is a friend who can be a constant companion as they undergo treatment. This creates an outlet for a child to express their fear and to feel loved in a more hopeful and comforting world. Also, with art and coloring books we create activities for the entire famly. Parents feel the pain of their sickened child and also need the friendship and the ability to be involved in healing."
Thus far, our program expansion has been a substantial success, with more toys and books arriving. We are planning a Valentine party in February. In addition, we will be providing vitamins and other nutritional essentials to the children and families staying at the center. More details to come!
Thank you again for your kindness!
We look forward to your continued support.
Albert Santoli,
Director, Asia America Inititative
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By Albert Santoli | Project Leader
By Albert Santoli | Project Leader
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