By KRISTEL SATUMBAGA
De La Salle and College of St. Benilde literally opened their doors and welcomed the poor struggling to find a shelter in the midst of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
In a post on their official social media accounts, two photos show the “urban poor” lying on mats inside a hall.
“De La Salle University serves as a temporary sanctuary to the homeless in Manila during the enhanced community quarantine,” the post stated, adding that they are currently housing 79 individuals, among them women and elderly.
“(They) are currently staying at the second floor of the Enrique Razon Sports Center until the Luzon-wide lockdown is lifted,” said the post, referring to the hall where most of its student-athletes practice for collegiate leagues.
The initiative is in partnership with the Divine World Missionaries (SVD) through their “KAin, LIgo NG ayos (KALINGA) Program.”
“SVD volunteers are looking after the basic needs of those who are taking shelter in Razon.”
Meanwhile, College of St. Benilde currently houses 80 homeless individuals, where they are also being provided with the same necessities.
St. Scholastica’s College in Manila is likewise housing a number of guests according to reports.
The post drew thousands of responses from people, who donated cash and in kind such as pillows, mattresses, protective masks, vitamins, toiletries and alcohol.
