FEED them, teach them and care for them, and they will become good citizens of this country.
This, in a nutshell, is the mantra of the Consolacion police in gathering 30 streetchildren for a feeding activity on Monday, February 26.
The feeding sets in motion the campaign dubbed “Police and Partners Acts of Kindness for Consolacion Kids or Police Packs. It is a partnership of the Philippine National Police in Consolacion, the City Government of Consolacion, private sector and civil society groups.
It is the brainchild of the town’s police commander, Chief Inspector Gerard Ace Pelare.
"I desire to have a more sustainable anti-crime program. If we leave these children uncared, they will be our problem in the future," Pelare said.
A memorandum of understanding was signed by Consolacion Mayor Teresa Alegado, 12 sponsors (businessmen and non-government groups), and Pelare on Monday morning.
"As police officers, we have the obligation to secure a peaceful environment for the next generation," the police official said.
Pelare said they are aiming to take care of 50 street children, ages 10 to 15. They will be gathered every Wednesday afternoon for a feeding activity, which will be followed by a lecture on how to become a good citizen in the country.
"Some have parents, but most of these kids are orphaned. They are roaming in streets of Consolacion, begging for alms," he said.
Police Packs, Pelare said, would ensure the street children will not be victimized by criminal groups.
Pelare said added they are looking into sending some of the children to school, as one of the group’s initial plans.
The children’s health, behavior and grooming will also be monitored.
Pelare said Alegado promised to provide shelter for these children and their parents. (KAL/VoxPop Cebu)