Davao, Philippines
Davao is colourfully chaotic with jeepneys carrying a lot of local commuters, food hawkers and cars beeping as if they are having a conversation. It is known for its beautiful mountain and beach resorts. There are also many beggars in walkways asking for change or selling whatever they can get their hands on to earn money.
It has been a long time since I had witnessed the poverty that exists in Davao. When we walked out of our hotel, I saw across the street, a well dressed woman who was talking to some kids and then a few minutes later, one came up to my husband and started begging for money. The other child went to a caucasian couple a few yards away probably doing the same thing. Tim didn't give him any money but he did offer him food which the child refused. I was so angry because these children are obviously being used to beg for money from foreigners. This happened a lot when Tim went there a few years back as well. He was always bombarded with kids begging for money and so he had the idea to carry food in his pocket. He became so broken from all the poverty and felt that he wasn't doing enough to help the people. I understand this feeling as you want to help everyone you see but it's just not possible.
Throwing money is not the answer, these children need an education, a chance to be able to get out of poverty in a positive manner. Our partnership with Hope for the Nations in Davao is working to empower the poor and vulnerable. They have sponsorship program and feeding centers for children to help pull them out of the cycle of poverty. They are doing such wonderful things with the kids there and we witnessed a lot of happy active children wanted to welcome us.
Sponsoring a child would bring hope in their community. Your sponsorship provides children with a uniform, school supplies, tutoring, mentorship and a healthy meal to help them succeed in school.
Good & Fair Clothing
We are super stoked to include Good & Fair's clothing to our shop. It's the softest t-shirt I have ever worn in my life. I have sung many praises for Good & Fair over the past few months and I really love the reason why Shelton (founder and owner) started Good & Fair. He wasn't comfortable with how his clothes were made and who made them. We don't really think about who made our favourite hoodie or pair of jeans and figure out how to get the best deal possible. But at what cost? I'm thankful that my favourite hoodie is slave free and made in Canada but often times, most of my clothing has been made in China or Vietnam with very different labour laws. That's what I love about Good & Fair - they are making it possible for us to feel good about the clothes that we purchase and wear. Their clothing is also fair trade certified. What does this mean? It means that the farmers and garment workers were paid fairly for their work, helping them fight poverty and provide for their families. Another bonus is that the clothing uses 100% organic cotton and green friendly dyes.
