A truly exciting day on December 8 as Give Love Inc. (GLI) officers, volunteers and supporters gathered at the Sandown Park Hotel in Noble Park for its annual fundraising that raised over $10,000 altogether to help make a positive difference in the lives of families and children in the Philippines through feeding and providing Noche Buena meals this Christmas.
“Today is a day of love and giving, thank you everyone for coming and supporting us”, opening warm welcome from GLI President Liza Aquino di Blasio, also Chairperson of the Filipino Community Council of Victoria Inc. (FCCVI), proudly sponsoring Give Love Inc. with Le’ Oscars Charity in Action.
On behalf of Le’ Oscars Charity Inc., Founder-President Willy de Joya contributed $3000 to go towards the Christmas appeal that will benefit families in Malaybalay-Bukidnon in Mindanao, Christ is Lord Church in Cabanatuan City and Sta Rosa Church in Tupi, South Cotabato.
De Joya honoured President de Blasio for her passion for inspiring everyone to give love through sharing blessings and recognised attendees for being kind and compassionate to enable feeding programs and give cash donations for struggling families, thanks to this important collaboration between Give Love and Le’ Oscars since 2017.
Performances by the Friendship Club of Melbourne Inc. brought so much delight as Dance Coach Rosemarie Ferran, Amy Ongoco, Juliet Manalac Orquia, Marie Barneveld, Eva Follero Rudge, Lilian Bowler, Melissa Rawlison and Vera Fink danced to the tunes of ‘Sa Araw ng Pasko” and ‘All I Want for Christmas”.
The Awarding of Ambassadors of Goodwill likewise warmed everyone’s hearts: over 50 ambassadors donated cash and were given recognition certificates and Give Love Kenzie bears. Merchandise items like glittery headbands solicited surprised donations. Various raffle prizes from generous donors were also given away to the excitement of several winners.
As a token of gratitude, guests received a complimentary small bottle of Jay Pogi Sinamak Apple Cider Vinegar with Calamansi mixture. This gesture reflects the spirit of giving and support for business owners Joy and Jay Merin. Joy, who is also an Ambassador of Goodwill, generously donated toys and school supplies to the project.
There was also a segment for birthday celebrants, blowing birthday cakes with ‘Happy Birthday’ wishing songs. ….the festive momentum with exhilarating music that provided continuous dancing while a delicious buffet meal pleasantly satisfied tempted tastebuds.
With GLI Secretary Rose Ferran, Treasurer Juliet Manalac and PRO Eva Follero Rudge, President di Blasio proudly thanked everyone for the generous donations that will make Christmas significantly enjoyable for underprivileged families and children in the Philippines, huge thanks to the annual Give Love Christmas Day luncheon for giving and sharing love, kindness and compassion.
