A Mission of Love: The Heart of Kusina ng Kalinga

True service is not just about giving—it is about touching lives, sharing hope, and making a difference, no matter how small. The Rotary Club of Metro San Fernando La Union, in partnership with the City Government of San Fernando La Union, took this mission to heart through the Kusina ng Kalinga project—a five-month feeding program that went beyond providing meals.

In Baraoas Elementary School, Parparya Elementary School, and Nagyubuyuban Integrated School, we didn’t just serve food; we built connections, listened to stories, and embraced the realities of those in need. We provided more than nourishment—we brought water bottles for hydration, booklets and school supplies to empower young minds, dental kits for brighter smiles, and simple yet meaningful acts of kindness that carried a message: You are not alone. You are valued. You are loved.

For every Rotary Club member who joined this journey, it was more than a project, it was a life- changing experience. Seeing the gratitude in the eyes of the children, feeling the warmth of their smiles, and knowing that our efforts, no matter how small, made an impact, filled our hearts in ways words cannot fully capture.

This experience is something we will forever cherish. It is a reminder that true service is about more than just giving; it is about showing up, making people feel seen, and leaving behind not just food, but hope. And as Rotarians, we will continue to serve, not because we have to, but because we believe that kindness—no matter how simple—has the power to change lives.

Written by: Angeline Go, Rotary Club of Metro San Fernando La Union, Rotary International District 3790