Growing Our Work in Mindanao
February has been a month of meaningful impact, and we are grateful for your continued support in helping us protect and empower children and communities across the Philippines. With your generosity, our team has reached hundreds of children and families through programs focused on child safety, community health, and education. We are especially grateful to share that this month is a testament to our expanding work in Mindanao, particularly in Bukidnon and Cagayan de Oro, located in the northern region of Mindanao.
Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Program – Brgy. Kibongcog, Bukidnon
Brgy. Kibongcog is a rural community in Bukidnon, home to indigenous families, including members of the Tigwahanon tribe. Many households rely on farming and daily labor for income, and access to clean water and sanitation infrastructure remains limited. These conditions increase vulnerability to waterborne diseases, especially among children. This month, through the support of a generous grant, we conducted a WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) program in Brgy. Kibongcog. We had the privilege of training 291 adults from the Tigwahanon tribe on proper hygiene practices, safe water handling, and sanitation techniques that help prevent waterborne illnesses. Participants received basic hygiene kits to practice what they learned at home, as well as infographic materials that they can display in their households as daily reminders of safe hygiene practices. These tools, combined with our training, help create lasting improvements in health and safety. In addition, our engagement with families and community leaders included child protection awareness, strengthening understanding of safe environments for children, and helping reduce risks to their health.
ICBSSS Booklet Distribution & Children’s Feeding – Brgy. Kauswagan, Cagayan de Oro City
One of the most joyful moments this month was the feeding program for children in Brgy. Kauswagan, Cagayan de Oro. In partnership with Church Alive Assembly of God, we reached over 100 children through feeding support and our “I can be strong, smart, and safe” booklet training. The children gathered with excitement as they were served warm, delicious meals that filled the space with smiles and laughter. For many, sharing a nutritious meal in a safe and caring environment was a meaningful reminder that they are seen and valued. Beyond the meal, the children enthusiastically participated in our ICBSSS child safety lessons, eagerly answering questions and engaging in activities about safety and identifying trusted adults. Their energy and participation made the learning both fun and impactful. Each child also received a hygiene kit, which they accepted with great excitement. These simple but practical items help reinforce the hygiene lessons they learned and support healthier habits at home.
WHAT’S TO COME:
Forging New Partnerships: Redeeming Zoe is exploring collaborations with local churches, community groups, and partners to reach more children and families in Cebu and other underserved areas. These partnerships will allow us to expand our child protection programs and bring vital support to even more vulnerable communities.
Expanding the ICBSSS Program: We are excited to roll out our “I Can Be Strong, Smart, and Safe” program in a new barangay community, empowering children with knowledge and skills to stay safe, make wise choices, and thrive in nurturing environments.