APOʼs Christmas Outreach at the Holy Family Home Foundation

By Dr. Teresa Goduco

Last November 26, 2012, the APO celebrated Christmas with the Holy Family Home Foundation, in lieu of our annual Christmas party. The Holy Family Home Foundation (HFH) is a non-profit organization run by the Capuchin Tertiary Sisters.

They provide long term residential care for girls who were abandoned, neglected, orphaned or physically abused. Presently, they have 33 girls aged 7-19. The girls are under the care of the nuns led by Sr. Luz Maria and are housed in Pembo, Makati.

The girls presented the opening prayer in the form of a dance. This was followed by an inspirational talk given by our president, Dr. Obet Tan. Dr. Marievic Reyes and Dr. Lory Salonga then gave toothbrushing instructions and a demonstration which the girls attentively listened to. The highlight was the dance exercise participated in by the HFH girls, APO members and even Sr. Luz Maria.

The girls rendered a couple of Christmas songs and a surprise birthday song for Dr. Obet Tan. Dr. Crissie Santayana also surprised Dr. Tan with a chocolate cake. Afterwards, the girls excitedly lined up for their loot bags which consisted of a pillow, Colgate toothbrushes and toothpaste, Happee toothpaste, and Kopiko chocolate mix. Donations of old clothes, toys and books from the APO members were also given. Snacks and fellowship ended the morning celebration.