CHILDREN’S HOME
This quarter, Shechem Home has been a place of safety and healing for 23 children, including five boys and 18 girls, ages 3 to 14 We welcomed three newly rescued children into our care and are deeply grateful to have safely reintegrated two children with their non-offending family members, helping them take the first steps toward recovery.
This quarter, Shechem Children’s Home was truly blessed by the outpouring of love and support from generous individuals and organizations The children experienced the joy of funfilled activities, receiving thoughtful gifts and essential supplies that helped meet their everyday needs With full hearts, we gathered in prayer, offering thanks for God’s unwavering goodness and provision to Shechem Home. We are deeply grateful to our partners for the Christmas gifts and food that brought so much joy, and to our dedicated staff, volunteers, and friends whose efforts in organizing therapeutic activities created a space of healing, joy, and comfort for the children Your kindness has made a lasting impact on their lives Thank you for being part of this beautiful season of giving
BATANG KIT HANDA BATANG KIT HANDA
Children Can Be Heroes in Times of Disasters
Shechem recently hosted the “Batang KIT HANDA: Children Can Be Heroes in Times of Disaster” training, led by our tutor. Using a child-focused disaster preparedness module, the children learned essential skills for responding to emergencies. They actively participated in discussions and, on the final day, applied what they had learned in a disaster simulation, taking on roles as rescuers and survivors.
The activity boosted their confidence. One child shared, “Even if I am part of a vulnerable group, I learned I can do something during a disaster,” while another said, “Though nervous, I did my best to help.” The training concluded with a simple recognition ceremony, and many children expressed their desire to share their new knowledge with their families to help keep everyone safe.
A JOURNEY OF COMPASSION: INTERNS &FELLOWS
AT SHECHEM
Interns and fellows at Shechem Children’s Home often describe their experiences as deeply transformative, not only for the children they serve but also for themselves Shechem provides an environment filled with warmth, love, and care, where the staff works tirelessly to create as normal
and joyful life as possible for children who have endured unimaginable trauma Maja, an intern from Denmark, shared her experience: “I experienced a lot of creative freedom and felt heard about what I have to offer. My ideas were taken seriously, and I was given the support I needed to make my work constructive." This sense of being valued is common for interns and fellows, who often find their contributions are integral to Shechem's mission While the reality of OSEC (Online Sexual Exploitation of Children) is dark and painful, Shechem provides a beacon of hope Caleb, a fellow from the USA, reflected, “I am forever grateful to be included in a family of love that changes darkness to joy ” At Shechem, children begin to heal as they find comfort, trust, and laughter once more. Interns and fellows, in turn, witness the profound transformation of these children while experiencing their own growth, making lasting connections that impact both their personal and professional lives for years to come
KEY’S COURAGE KEY’S COURAGE
A Journey of Healing and Responsibility
Key arrived at the center at just 11 years old, feeling lost in an unfamiliar environment. She was quiet and withdrawn, often sitting alone and struggling with panic attacks. But over time, with the patience and support of the staff, Key began to open up. She developed healthy coping mechanisms, like talking with other children and engaging in playtime activities.
As her shyness faded, Key grew more comfortable with the group. She became an active participant in games and activities and even began taking the initiative to help with chores like cleaning and cooking. One of Key's most remarkable qualities is her natural nurturing spirit. She often looks after the younger children, stepping in when conflicts arise. Staff affectionately call her “Mommy Key” due to her motherly care and protection.
From a quiet, anxious child to a confident, responsible young lady, Key’s transformation reflects her resilience and deep sense of responsibility.
In one of Manila's busiest cities, Gide, a mother, struggles to make ends meet on a modest income of 17,000 pesos ($294) a month. Committed to providing a better future for her children, Gide and her partner work tirelessly. They entrusted their seven-year-old son to Gide’s sister, unaware of the risks involved.
When her son and two nieces were rescued from abuse and placed in Shechem Children’s Home, the family faced a heartbreaking separation. Despite the pain, Gide chose to support the process, trusting that Shechem would provide a safe space for healing.
Transforming their sorrow into purpose, the family remains dedicated to reunification, taking steps to prepare for their children’s return. Their bond endures through regular video calls and thoughtful gifts. Today, they are grateful to Shechem Children’s Home for its care and support. With renewed determination, Gide and her partner are committed to protecting their children from future harm as they look forward to a joyful reunion.
A LETTER FROM A 12-year old survivor
As we pursue our mission of healing and restoration for the children, we ask for your prayers for:
Provision of a dependable vehicle for the children’s transportation. Finalization of repairs on the home’s exterior.
Successful completion of requirements for accreditation under the new DSWD guidelines. Strength, patience, and wisdom for our staff.
Continued harmony and collaboration among all our partners.