Rotarians extend aid to needy families in Victorias

The Rotary Club of Bacolod-Marapara, in partnership with the Rotaract Club of Marapara, has once again reached out to indigent families in Victorias City, delivering vital assistance through the mayor’s Adopt a Victoriasanon Family Program. The initiative aims to uplift households facing hardship by providing essential support and restoring hope.

Among the recipients was the Java family from Bugtong Lubi, Barangay 6. Joel Java, 55, serves as a barangay tanod and struggles to support his four children on a modest income. His son, 18-year-old April Boy, lives with a mental disability and is a polio survivor, unable to walk and confined to their small home. Thanks to the clubs’ donation of a wheelchair, April Boy can now move about more freely.

The family also received bedding, clothing, rice, and groceries – simple comforts that brought welcome relief.

Another beneficiary was 35-year-old nipa maker Exibele Balajadia, who, together with his wife, is raising six children in Purok Nipa, Barangay 6. Their riverside home is prone to flooding, adding to their daily challenges. Club members delivered a solar lamp, electric fan, rice, groceries and clothing to help ease their burden.

Rotary Club president April Kitagawa led the distribution of donations. “Meeting these families reminds us why service matters,” she said. “Every small gift can restore dignity and hope. Rotary is here not just to give, but to stand with our communities in times of need.”* (Robert Harland)