21 September 2016 — The Shepherd Arms Children’s Home held a “La Paz Batchoy for a Cause” on September 10 in Canberra, Australia to raise funds to support the Home’s operations in caring for over 100 disadvantaged children in Bohol and Cebu. Participants in the fundraising activity were treated to “La Paz Batchoy,” a famous dish originating from Iloilo, Philippines, generously prepared by Mr. Edwin and Reynaida Camporedondo.
Shepherds Arms Children’s Home cares for disadvantaged children including those who are orphaned, abandoned and physically abused. The Home is kept running through the commitment of its Board of Trustees, their families and friends. One of the wards at the Shepherds Arms Children’s Home has since graduated from college and is now a teacher giving back to her community. Three (3) more are studying in Universities and have bright careers ahead of them.
Dr. Rizalyn Albarracin, one of the members of the Board of Trustees, opened the fundraising event and encouraged the Filipino-Australian community’s interest in supporting Shepherds Arms Children’s Home.
In her welcome remarks, Philippine Ambassador to Australia Minda Calaguian-Cruz enjoined everyone to support in their own little way the most vulnerable and disadvantaged people in the Philippines. She shared that Australia has high regard for Filipinos especially for their charity and spirit of volunteerism. She commended Shepherd Arms Children’s Home for their passion and dedication in providing greater opportunities for children in Cebu and Bohol and said the fundraising event celebrates the strong camaraderie of Filipinos and Australia as the Philippines and Australia mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year.
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