ROMAH Foundation, Inc. went on their 2nd mission trip to the Philippines on May-June 2010. This summer, we began our "YOUNG DREAMERS" Scholarship and Sponsorship Program in partnership with Servants of the Divine Mercy Community (SDMC). The candidates for our program were personally chosen from different tribal places of San Carlos, Iloilo, Himamaylan, and Binalbagan, Negros Occidental; all of these towns are located in Visayas, Philippines. (The majority of our scholars live in these remote and mountainous areas. Transportation is scarce. Children would walk to school for long hours in the heat of the sun, and even through the pouring rain!).
We carefully evaluate and assess the status of each scholar. Our selection process is based on the criteria of their overall grades given from previous school years, current living situations, and family program participation.
Through the help of our donors, ROMAH Foundation, Inc.was able to process the enrollment of 100 elementary students for this school year 2010-2011. During which, we distributed a number of backpacks for them. Each backpack was meticulously embroidered with our logo and the message "RENEW OUR MINDS AND HEARTS", by Yelena of “I Stitch & Print” (Van Nuys, California). We filled each bag with school supplies including toothbrushes too,(courtesy of Dr.Carmen Uy, DDS of St. Therese Dental (Glendale, CA). That's not all folks. We also gave them brand new shoes!!! 
A special thanks to Dr. Harold Noel of HAITIAN AMERICAN FOOD BANK for contributing a wide array of footwear. Seeing the kids leap for joy and having the best time of their lives when they received their gifts, was very heart-warming and a sight to see!
In addition, we initiated the rehabilitation of a 3-story building; a youth formation and crisis center for the community.
We replaced the dilapidated roofs and ceilings, repaired broken windows and doors, and painted walls in the hallways and rooms. Moreover, we made an effort to build a small library. All the book references, learning CD’s, tapes, and interactive videos, were provided by Robyn Murphy and Pastor Tim Oden of In His Presesence Church (IHPC),and other reading materials were provided by Shideh Afshar & Family. We also supplied the library with a set of computers, donated by Bishop Stewart. The volunteer workers, missionaries, and poor families in the community received clothing from Saeed & Terry Massoumi.
While we were there, we also attended the 25th Year Anniversary Celebration of Servants of the Divine Mercy Community. Now, that's the way to end the mission trip...joining the feast with good Filipino food!
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