Payatas Pupils Receive Books from Ateneo Grade School

Blogger's Note: The following article "My Reflections on Books Distribution in Payatas Elementary School" is written by Mrs. Rose B. Falla as guardian of Ateneo Grade I pupil Kyle Daniel F. Taruc. She joined the mother's group which volunteered the distribution sometime in August 2009. Payatas is one of the most distressed area in the metropolis which deserves assistance of all forms. (JFS)

My Reflections on Book Distribution in Payatas

It was a great day for selected parents/grandparents of Ateneo Grade 1 School, who volunteered to visit Payatas Elementary School to distribute books in English and Mathematics, as the project of the Ateneo Grades School. It aims at sharing and helping the needy students from the public schools like Payatas.

Ms. Rivera, the Project in-charge from Ateneo oriented us on the mechanics of the activity and on how to get through Payatas Elementary School because all of us volunteers were new to this place. It was encouraging for all of us mothers/grandmothers to be part of the hardwork as CPO's CPR's of the organization.

The Project's deep concerns and willingness to help the needy in its own special way, are something worthwhile and commendable. I admire the cooperation and camaraderie among the (Atenean) parents who came from the different walks of life as they use their energy showing their beauty, grace and sense of humor while working.They were all proud of their daily performance as mothers. I can clearly see how much they love and care for their boys.

Mei Pederal and I represented the Grade 1 Yakal afternoon class. We got and served two (2) sections assignment, and were even lucky to say that our room (assignment) is on the second floor where we enjoyed carrying the books on to the classroom. We then introduced ourselves to the teacher and students.

I noticed one student writing with her 3-inch long pencil with no eraser at all. I feel sad and sorry about what I saw, and realized how much these students need assistance in their quest for education.

With this brief experience I gained, I hope and pray that the Ateneo Grade School will continue to support this kind of charitable activities.By so-doing, our boys (in Ateneo) will also learn and instill the values of caring for the needy and for sharing what they have. Truly, the Ateneans as a big family cares and is blessed, as the Bible puts it, "it is more blessed to give than to receive". (Rose B. Falla)