In the spirit of compassion and Christmas cheer, the Zonta Club of Cebu II recently brought joy to the female Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) at the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) Female Dormitory in Mandaue City.
This heartfelt initiative, which has been an annual tradition for the past 16 years, is part of the 18 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. Zn. Mildred Simolde, a member of the Abay sa Kahayag Committee, highlighted the enduring commitment of Zonta Club to uplifting women in marginalized settings. She noted that the first gift-giving event was organized during the leadership of former club president, Zn. Dr. Elsa Basubas.
“The purpose of our visit is simple yet meaningful: to bring joy and hope to these women, reminding them that they are not forgotten,” shared Zn. Simolde during her inspirational message.
The event radiated warmth and festivity, with PDLs showcasing dance performances and a heartfelt song prepared specially for the occasion. For the women in the facility, the preparation and the event itself served as a refreshing break from their daily routine. Both Zontians and PDLs shared genuine moments of connection, with smiles and laughter filling the room.
For many PDLs, the visit was more than a celebration—it was a reminder of kindness and humanity. Some were moved to tears as they felt the sincerity and thoughtfulness of the Zonta Club members who took time to share the holiday spirit with them.
The program concluded with the distribution of “Bundles of Joy,” containing food items, towels, toiletries, slippers, and even a touch of self-care with lipstick. These simple yet meaningful gifts brought not just physical comfort, but also emotional upliftment to the recipients.
The visit reaffirmed a powerful truth: compassion knows no boundaries. Through initiatives like these, the Zonta Club of Cebu II has consistently shown that kindness and friendship can make a profound impact, especially for women who face challenging circumstances.
For 16 years, Zonta Club of Cebu II has visited the BJMP Female Dormitory every March and December, ensuring that the women feel seen, valued, and remembered. Their enduring message resonates deeply:
This annual outreach continues to serve as a beacon of hope, showing that even small gestures can leave a lasting impact on those who need it most.
SOURCE : Zonta Club of Cebu II Brings Holiday Cheer to Mandaue City Jail Female Dormitory
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