We recently partnered with the Inner Wheel Club of Rosario Diamond on a truly inspiring project called “Pagkalinga sa mga Kababaihan sa Selda” – which translates to “Care for Women in Prison” – with the beautiful tagline “Babaeng Masaya ay Babaeng Malaya” meaning “A Happy Woman is a Free Woman”. This initiative aimed to bring hope and support to the women at the Correctional Institute for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong City, Philippines.
About the Correctional Institute for Women
The CIW houses over 3,000 women who have been convicted of various crimes. It’s a place where many stories of hardship and struggle reside, and we felt compelled to offer a gesture of care and compassion during the Christmas season.
Our Shared Vision
Working closely with the Inner Wheel Club of Rosario Diamond, an all-women organisation dedicated to helping those less fortunate, we conducted a needs analysis to understand how we could best support the women at CIW. Our objective was to address the health and sanitation needs of 100 women, provide them with comfortable clothing and footwear, and offer some makeup kits to boost their spirits. We also wanted to show our appreciation for the 30 staff members who dedicate their time to caring for these women.
A Day Filled with Hope and Joy
On 7th December 2024, we visited the CIW and spent a memorable day with the residents. We organised a programme filled with uplifting activities, including:
- Performances by the CIW residents, showcasing their talents and resilience.
- Zumba sessions, where we all danced and laughed together.
- A fashion show featuring Ms Universe 2020-QC, Star Villanueva, and the 2024 Ms CIW.
- Inspirational messages and heartfelt speeches.
We also distributed donations, including clothes, slippers, hygiene kits, and makeup. To add a festive touch, we shared snacks and beverages with everyone.
Collaboration and Gratitude
We are incredibly grateful to the Inner Wheel Club of Rosario Diamond for their invaluable partnership in this project. Their commitment to serving the community is truly commendable. We also want to express our sincere thanks to all our donors and volunteers who made this day possible.
Looking Ahead
We believe that everyone deserves compassion and support, regardless of their circumstances. This project reinforced our dedication to helping those in need and fostering a sense of hope and belonging. We are committed to continuing our work with the CIW and other organisations to empower women and create a more inclusive society.