PACC-DC Supports Bantay Bata 163

Part of the proceeds from PACC-DC’s 25th Anniversary Fundraiser Gala will go towards supporting Bantay Bata 163.

Philippine-American Chamber of Commerce of Metro Washington DC President Cristina Sison wanted the organization’s upcoming gala to not only bring together and impact the business community here in the area, but to also make a difference in society, particularly back in the Philippines. There are many worthy organizations to support, but after some thought on the matter she reached out to Bantay Bata 163 because of their tireless work to help abused and maltreated children, a cause that everyone can get behind.

Specifically, the funds to be donated will be for the Children’s Village program. Located on a 2.5 hectare lot (approx 6.2 acres), the Chidren’s Village in Norzagaray, Bulacan serves as a shelter for abused children rescued by Bantay Bata 163. It is a place where they can heal and recover from the trauma of abuse and exploitation that they have previously endured. Over the years, the Children’s Village has helped more than 1,700 children by providing a safe, loving, and caring environment, where house parents provide day-to-day parental supervision and support in a structured, therapeutic family-like environment.

Bantay Bata 163 started as a child welfare program for children at risk in 1997, it focused on helping children who are physically abused and maltreated. Bantay Bata 163 rescues them from the source of abuse with the ultimate goal of re- integrating the children to their family or nearest of kin. By operating the first child care hotline in the country, Bantay Bata 163 was able to provide access and immediate response to children in crisis. The cases reported to the 163 hotline were handled by trained counsellors and social workers who are always on standby to respond to crisis situations. Children who experienced significant abuse and who cannot be reintegrated with their families were given refuge in the Children’s Village where they were provided premium care and underwent counselling and therapy.

Learn more on their website.