TACLOBAN CITY – The Women and Children's Shelter of this city celebrated its 13th year of service to survivors of abuse and exploitation. The event began with a Holy Mass celebrated by Rev. Fr Felicito Borres, followed by a program showcasing the clients' talents and success stories of former residents.
The shelter currently houses 42 clients and offers skills training, livelihood activities, and rehabilitative services to aid in the protection, healing, and recovery of women and children.
Shelter Head Carmela Bastes acknowledged the challenges they face, such as the increasing number of women and children seeking help and the need for additional resources, including an additional house parent and an expanded facility.
City Social Welfare and Development Officer Fe Chona Bahin called for LGU employees and officials to work together to help abused women and children.
During the celebration, former resident Claire Boada, now a licensed professional teacher, volunteered to offer lectures and educational activities to the children in the LGU-run facility.
The event concluded with the Amazing Race and the Search for Miss Women's Shelter, with Executive Assistant Bernice Ocampo representing Mayor Alfred Romualdez and acting City Information Officer Melissa Ledesma and social workers present during the program.
The Women and Children's Shelter in Tacloban City, which opened its doors on March 19, 2010, is accredited by the Department of Social Welfare and Development. The shelter has been providing a nurturing environment and support for abuse survivors for 13 years. —iTacloban (Source: CIO)