“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”
Helen Keller
The UB School of Natural Sciences conducted a gift-giving activity and medical mission at the La Trinidad Therapy Center for Children with Disabilities. The activity, entitled “Celebrating Exceptionalities: UB SNS Medical Mission and Gift-giving” was held last December 3, 2022 at the Lednicky Hall of the La Trinidad Municipal Hall.
This outreach program was initiated in 2019, and subsequent gift-giving activities were conducted even during the pandemic for the La Trinidad Therapy Center’s children with disabilities and their families. The SNS ECOS and Alumni collaborative programs kept up this selfless sharing during the pandemic, as they also advocate for December’s International Day for People with Disabilities in the Philippines.
In keeping with the theme for this year, “Sharing a ray of hope for a healthier community,” the UB SNS ECOS and Alumni coordinators were able to get the support from various organizations like Bright Vision Optical, Baguio Pain Management and Rehabilitation Center, Philippine Dental Association (Benguet Chapter), Rotary Club of Baguio Summer Capital Inc., and Joey’s Corner. Donations were also given by BSPT & BMLS alumni and other private individuals. The UB SNS team, as well as alumni of the BSPT and BSMT/BSMLS programs, spearheaded the medical mission and gift-giving.
During the event, assistance was provided to 47 families, 12 persons with disabilities (PWDs), and approximately 55 children with disabilities. Free physical assessment, medical check-up, eye check-up and laboratory tests were provided. Grocery packs, food packs, hygiene kits, first aid and medical kits, and toys were shared as well. The children’s joyous and exuberant reactions, our partners’ persistent support, and the community’s unending gratitude have all been heartwarming sights that have wrapped up this event.
Together with its partners and alumni, the UB SNS will continue to offer sustainable activities for the establishment and maintenance of healthier and better communities.
This activity also falls in line with the University of Baguio’s mission in helping achieve the SDGs, with this activity helping in SDG 11 and 17.
