A DAY WITH THE ELDERLIES

San Juan National High School’s clubs namely MHCC or the Mary Help of Christians Crusade and the Cornerstone collaborated for the first time for an outreach activity last January 18, 2019 at The Little Sisters of the Elderly located in Blumentritt St. cor. R. Pascual St. San Juan City. It was a meaningful endeavour both to the members of the said clubs and for the elderlies as well.

This was made possible through the coordination of the advisers of the clubs; Mrs. Sheila Roz F. Sumio of MHCC and Mrs. Edna U. Cunanan of Cornerstone. Also, credits are given to the Brothers and Sisters and Representatives of the organizations.

Both clubs are under the Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao (EsP) Department with Mrs. Rosemarie C. Cuaresma as Coordinator. MHCC is a youth campus movement dedicated to the sanctification of the young people. This is actualized through weekly catechism classes, monthly prayer vigils and regular seminars, conferences conducted to the different public and private high schools while Cornerstone is a program launched by Ateneo Center for Educational Development (ACED). It is the arm of Ateneo University thru Couples for Christ Global Foundation, Inc. (CFC) in helping uplift public basic education in the country by providing formation program in human and social, moral, spiritual and professional development.

On the other hand, The Little Sisters of the Elderly houses one hundred five (105) female elderlies. Seventy percent (70%) of the lolas living in the house do not receive any support from their families, only thirty percent (30%) do. Conducting outreach program like this means a lot to them and this helps them save a meal once in a while.

The program started with an Opening Prayer by Brother Robert Escobedo of MHCC. Mrs. Florence C. Ares, Assistant Principal II of San Juan National High School, delivered her heartfelt and inspiring message. This was followed by an action song which was taught by Sister Lea of MHCC. The lolas also showcased their talents despite their old age. There were three (3) who rendered a song number and two (2) who recited a poem.

Members of the Cornerstone also added enjoyment to the program by a song and dance number dedicated to the Lolas. Mr. Jeff Calimlim, Team Head of Cornerstone, also gave his message to the participants.

Lastly, Bingo Social was played as their final activity. This was their favorite part. They actively participated in this game as the crowd became ecstatic. Before the group bid goodbye to the lolas, there was a one-on-one sharing with each other. Snacks were given afterwards.

A day with the elderly is a day well-spent. Students of both clubs yearn for more significant community activities like this because it taught them life-long lessons like embracing life even at an old age.