Our AAI team of ten returned from another amazing mission to the Philippines on April 14, 2015.

The first stop was to the dumpsite in Abatex where we provided enough food and clean water for three months.   The families were so grateful and girl shared this was the first food she had eaten in two days. The kids put on a great performance for all of us.  We noticed that they needed a basketball net and on the way back, Linda Winslow found one at the market to provide some recreation for the children here who have so little.

We arrived at Shepherd of the Hills Children’s home and were greeted by the lovely children with lei’s made of ribbon.   The whole team got to participate in the graduation of the elementary school children in a touching ceremony. We shared an overnight at the beach, went island hopping on outriggers, swimming in the ocean and the pool…and .everyone got temporary tatoos.   Many thanks to Cathay Pacific Airways who provided transportation allowing Airline Ambassadors extra money to provide 21 bikes and a new playground for the children! Dave Rivard even starting a running club with the older kids and laid out a training course for the new team.  We made pizzas, did crafts and even coordinated a night Easter Egg Hunt with glow in the dark eggs. After an inspiring church service, and plenty of interactive time….the kids put on a spectacular closing show, topped off by the surprise donation from Carol Kemm (from USDA) to start a sustainable agriculture program and Nancy Rivard presented another significant donation representing the spectacular success of the new sponsorship program.  She acknowledged Christine Davidson, sponsorship coordinator…..and 4 more children were sponsored on that trip as a result of connections made!  It is these personal connections, that  blesses us as much as the children we serve.  Read the heart felt letter from Mission Leader, Cheryl Robinson HERE