Igniting Hopes: Support Carlito and Gerry’s hardships.

Negros Occidental, also known as Occidental Negros or Western Negros, is a province located in the Western Visayas in the Philippines. In the village of Central Lopes Fabrica in the town of Sagay, lives a 64 year old man and a 10 year old boy. This is a story of two persons.

CARLITO ARELITO, a 64 year old single man, who was a former skilled carpenter. He lives in a shabby little house which he built with his own hands. Since he lived alone, he used to make a decent income. Not until he was diagnosed with tuberculosis five months ago which made him unable to work. And because he had no other source of income or any relatives to help him, his health gradually became even worse because he can’t have the proper nutrition he needs and medical attention.

Gerry, a young boy, who lives in the same village with his siblings. Their father died and their mother just abandoned them, which left them astray and with no parent figure, not until Carlito noticed the boy and gave him shelter, food and all the necessities he needed. It’s been almost five years that Gerry lived with Carlito. And when Carlito got sick, the boy had to be the one to take care of him.

During Mondays, instead of going to school, as a tradition in the town of Sagay,people go to the cemetery to visit their loved-ones, and Gerry takes this opportunity to ask for jobs removing the weeds that grows around the tomb. Sometimes he sells ice candy so that they can have enough money to buy their food. But not all days that Gerry can go and find jobs because he also has to go to school as he still is in 2^nd grade. The money that Gerry makes can’t even cover up their basic needs. Sometimes if they are lucky enough, they can eat once a day. Mainly their food comprises of banana and root crops. But when they have nothing, they can’t do anything unless someone will provide them. Sometimes, their neighbors provide them with food and water, which they will be very grateful for.

I started this campaign for them, to help rebuild their house. To have a proper foundation due to heavy rainfalls and typhoons during rainy season here in the Philippines. And for Carlito to have a proper treatment and nutrition he needs. For Gerry, to have security in continuing his studies carefree. And for the both of them, to have a simple source of income just to provide their basic needs.

To donate in kind, please contact me,[email protected].

Alone, we can do so little, but together, we can do so much more. Let us show them the LOVE that they need and that they are not alone in this.