By Jea Marie Somosa

 In a remarkable act of solidarity and compassion, the WVSU - College of Nursing Community Assistance and Relief through Extension Services (CON CARES) collaborated with the Nursing Student Council (NSC) to deliver relief operations and health education to the fire survivors of Barangay Rizal Pala-Pala II, City Proper, Iloilo City, May 24, 2023.

The devastating incident affected at least 80 houses in the neighborhood and 107 families last April 29. Leaving a trail of destruction in its wake, the community begins a challenge in rebuilding their lives from the ashes with the aid of twenty-five extensionists from the CON faculty and students. 

The joint effort ensured the distribution of food, clothing, basic hygiene kits, and other essential supplies displaced by the fire among 100 families and 50 children. Moreover, the volunteers not only provided immediate relief but also emphasized the significance of holistic care through health classes for adults and children and IEC materials. 

Photos by Josephine Sumague

Adding to the collaborative efforts, the Angelina Bakeshop, the Local Government Unit (LGU), and other donors stepped forward to provide resources and services.

"People are only waiting for the chance to help others. The call for donations for CON CARES outreach projects received an overwhelmingly positive reaction. The rapid and generous response of the benefactors is a powerful affirmation that individuals are just looking for ways to assist those who are in need during the pandemic. Social media seems to be a useful tool for promoting extension services. A larger audience is reached and information transmission is quicker. When the community and stakeholders are informed about the extension services being provided, engagement increases. " Prof. Sheila P. Beliran, CON Extension Coordinator, advised on encouraging the community in initiating a donation drive. 

When asked to share a moment that deeply touched her during this donation drive, Prof. Donabelle R. Sioson, NSC Co-adviser expressed, "The story or moment that touched me during the relief operation activity this morning was when the residents especially the fire victims were able to appreciate the health teachings given and also the relief goods that they have received even though it's just a small amount of goods. Still, they have been very thankful that the College of Nursing of WVSU were able to remember them in these difficult times. We are overwhelmed with the response of the residents that our efforts were appreciated and that in one way or another, they have learned from the health teachings we have shared with them. From the children to the senior citizens that were affected by the fire, I am thankful that these little acts of the college had impacted them."

Student volunteer, Ken A. Divinagracia of Level 4 - Section B, shared his experience during the activity, "I was inspired to join the donation drive activity as a student nurse so that I could do something to help those families who were affected by the fire incident. It's also a way for me to show my support for the community and to let them know that CON CARES.".

As the cleanup and rebuilding process begins in Barangay Rizal Pala-Pala II, the legacy of this collaborative effort will endure as a testament to the power of solidarity and compassion. The unwavering support provided by CON CARES and its volunteers exemplify the true spirit of community service, offering a shining example for others to follow in times of crisis.