7 October 2009

Dear Partners,

Peace!

It has been a most extraordinary and blessed nine days – a week full of tears, exhaustion and frustration, matched with smiles, moments of heroism and answered prayers. Indeed, Ondoy has brought out the best in everyone! As we went around, we were witness to many silent but heroic initiatives from simple people who went out of their way to really be their brothers’ keeper, and Gawad Kalinga is proud to just be one of the organizations that was able to do our share to help our countrymen in need.

To date, Operation Walang Iwanan has been able to raise, repack and distribute close to 200,000 food packs to 9 cities in Manila and 3 provinces covering 30 barangays. Our Headquarters in RFM welcomed over 6,000 volunteers, not counting the many others who were in the field, helping in actual distribution.

This is only possible by the grace of God and the committed support of partners like you who have given generously to make sure that these affected families get much needed food packs. We cannot thank you enough, so allow me instead to share with you this actual experience that has fueled our conviction to continue the mission:

Last September 29, five poor children came to the headquarters carrying plastic bags full of their clothes and a new pair of slippers. They were all wearing an old pair, and told the team that they had decided to give their new pair to the victims who needed it more.

I am convinced in my heart that the generosity of the five was the turning point of Operation Walang Iwanan, and the floodgates of resources were just opened for the victims of Ondoy.

It is still a long road ahead, but we move with confidence knowing that we have partners like you who will not leave the poor behind. Thank you for your trust, and we look forward to seeing all of you in the GK Expo on Saturday, October 10, 2009.

Walang Iwanan!

Sincerely Yours,

Luis Oquinena

Executive Director

Gawad Kalinga