JKKCC's Educational Assistance Program - The Interview

Last Saturday, March 5, we had the opportunity to interview those who will be part of JKKCC’s Educational Assistance Program.  This coming school year in June, we are set to send to school 10 kids – all of whom come from an urban poor community very near our office.  We wanted to know them better and to hear what is in their heart regarding their son/daughter’s education so we asked them to attend the interview.  Together with their kid, the mothers went to our office last Saturday.

It was indeed a great opportunity to hear their hearts.  All of the kids said that they would like to study even though they are poor.  In spite of their living conditions – no electricity and no running water, the kids in their own way of saying it told us how much they are willing to attend school and learn everyday.  In fact, according to them, they are now studying even though many times they were hindered by their present condition.  I sat there struck by what I heard from these kids. 

Already touched by these wonderful kids, my heart was even more filled with amazement when I heard the mothers speak.  Each one of them narrated to us all their hardships and the challenges they had to face just to make sure their kids get proper education.  Many times their kids go to school without any food or money with them.  The meager income they get, either by selling street food, washing clothes for others, or pedaling a pedicab (a manually driven bicycle with a sidecar which is used to bring people from one point to another for a small fee), is just not enough for their family’s basic need. 

They also have learned to maximize their resources.  For example, they buy the cheapest shoes and uniform and they ask their children to be careful in using them, making sure that they last for as long as they can so that they will have enough time to earn money to buy another set.  Some use the same set of uniforms and shoes for 2 years, some even 3.  Some don’t even have shoes, they use flip flops to go to school.

Through it all, they have resolved in their hearts that they won’t let anything hinder them from sending their children to school.  That’s why they are very thankful that God has given them this educational assistance program.  What really amazes me is when they said that with or without the program, they will send their children to school.  All of them said that the only treasure they can give their children is education.  Many of them are suffering the consequences of not having a proper education when they were young that is why they don’t want their children to have the same experience.

After the meeting, me and my staff became more determined to help these kids.  Not only that we are helping them go to school but the Lord also used the program to bring the mothers and their kids to church.  The mothers regularly attend not only the worship service but also other church activities like prayer meetings and women’s fellowships.  I told them that we don’t have the funds that will ensure their kids finish their education from elementary to college, but for as long as the Lord gives us the means, we will surely help them.  They answered by saying, together with us, they too will rely on God.  They will keep on believing in the God they have now trusted and He who gave them life and salvation.