Distribution of Shoes to Indigenous People in Palawan, Philippines

The Shoe for Healthy Youth Project led by Pia Valeriano of Rotary Club of Emory Clifton has been completed on February 22 , 2018. This project lasted for three days where volunteers traveled from Puerto Princesa City to remote areas in Aborlan, Palawan, Philippines to reach less fortunate and needy children from Sitios Valderama and Aplaya of Barangay Ramon Magsaysay; also in Barangays Tigman, Jose Rizal, and Sagpangan. These areas are inhabited mostly by indigenous people and assistance are mostly needed. Children were reached through elementary schools, coordinated by local officials, Councilor Rafael Ortega and Mayor Jaime Ortega. There were 1400 shoes distributed, from pre-school to sixth graders; 600 pairs were distributed in Nueva Ecija through sister club, RC of Golden Harvest led by Elito Circa,(Amang Pintor), President of RCGH. Volunteers, administrators and teachers assisted in shoe fitting, distribution, and feeding. Juice, cookies, boiled eggs and sandwiches were served. Food preparation and distribution were led by volunteers from Villa de Sierra Vista, a hotel owned by Pia Valeriano. Jaycees President, Franchezka Liboro and officers also volunteered in the distribution and purchased food for the recipients. Through RCEC, we are scheduled to conduct a similar project in July to reach other schools in the area. Providing slippers/shoes help prevent children from acquiring illness, especially parasitic diseases. We thank RC of Emory Clifton, RC of Emory Druid Hills, RC of Golden Harvest, Makabayan Georgia, Inc., Villa de Sierra Vista, Ortega Family, Jaycees, and Atlanta Pinoys for your contributions to this project. Recipients were thrilled to receive these gift of love and kindness from you all!