One of the rare privileges we get at the Arnold Janssen Kalinga Center (AJKC) is the chance to be part of the journey of formerly homeless people who finally decide to leave the streets.
In April 2024, we welcomed 12 street dwellers who committed to undergo the 6-month KALINGA formation at the Center.
The in-house course included skills training like kitchen management; catechism; the KALINGA values formation; and human development classes–all with the goal of preparing the residents for reconciliation with their families and reintegration back into society.
On Oct. 25, 2024, a new cohort of incoming 12 resident volunteers was formally accepted as batch 10.
During their acceptance rites, which were integrated into the offering of the Holy Mass, the residents took time to share a bit about themselves and why they committed to the formation program.
There were all stories of neglect, survival, hopelessness, and even abuse.
To represent their commitment to their transformation, each one surrendered personal items like eyeglasses or an umbrella, symbolizing what they are willing to give up as they begin formation.
Meanwhile, on Oct. 29, 2024, seven (7) resident volunteers of batch 9 graduated from the program.
In a moving ceremony that included the Holy Mass, the resident volunteers shared about their plans moving forward and wore costumes or uniforms signifying their dreams for the future. ∎