August 2, 2023, Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes – An outsourcing company with a presence in Cebu City visited the Lourdes Sponsorship Office to distribute bags and other study materials for children and youth beneficiaries. Advice Revolution, an Australian company, came with their staff and executives as part of their business itinerary while in the city. The youth welcome their visitors with a display of their music skills in guitar, rondalla and violin and also through dance and singing. The visitors also entertained the kids and youth with fun, games and food.
The Lourdes Parish Sponsorship Office began in the 1980’s when foreigners who volunteered and immersed in the parish saw the educational needs of indigent youth. Ms. Regina Palencia, a long-time cooperator in the parish work took to task to organize the work which slowly snowballed throughout the years. Starting with less than 20 beneficiaries in the beginning, it peaked to around 500 and now the office supports around 300 youth in their studies.
The Sponsorship Office provides educational assistance through subsidies and scholarships, educational materials and school supplies, but also youth and family formation and skills training in music, performance arts and sports. Ms. Palencia is helped by a team of staff and volunteers. Beneficiaries and their parents also step up to contribute in whatever way they can in the noble work.
