The Gift of Education

If there is one gift that keeps on giving, that is the Gift of Education.  An education does not expire nor can one outgrow it. It’s rewards are great and boundless. It is sad, however, that not everyone is able to receive this gift. This is especially true in the Philippines. Although we have a public education system, it is grossly underfunded. Millions of Filipino children have little to no access to education.

This is where the Virlanie Foundation comes in. A private, non-sectarian child caring institution in Manila, the Virlanie Foundation aims to provide care, shelter and education to street children who are abandoned, abused and made to work.  Founded in 1992 by Dominique Lemay, the foundation aims to empower children for a brighter future, and what better way to do so than by giving them the gift of education.

However, Virlanie cannot do it alone. This is why they, in partnership with 8 of Serendra and Bonifacio High Street’s classy restaurants have decided to link up with the 8 to Educate campaign.

From October 26 to December 31, 2009, eating at any one of the eight participating restaurants will help educate a street child. By ordering one of the specially marked dishes in ArAma, Cav, Chelsea Cupcakes by Sonja, Fu, Healthy Kitchen, Sentro 1771 and Xocolat‘s menus, the restaurant will make a corresponding donation to the Virlanie foundation.

Diners are also encouraged to make donations by offering donation envelopes when you dine in. For as little as 800 pesos a month, you can support the education of a street child. As a sponsor, you will be paying for the uniform, shoes, school supplies, transportation, meals and special projects of  ” your”  child. In return, you can opt to correspond with the child and will be given regular updates about his/her progress.

The “I Ate To Educate” is a great way to help the children who need it most. Not only do you enjoy a great meal, you also get to give a child the most wonderful Christmas present ever: the gift of education.

Over the next two weeks, I will be featuring items on the 8 to educate menu on my food blog. Hope you go check it out!

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