Gawang Laya (Created Free) in conjunction with Hope of Life Community Church, held its inaugural fundraising event for Project Tahanan: Raise the Roof – Charity Basketball Tournament 2014. The event raised $1,802, the amount combined from the recent $1,200 raised by a supporter they fondly called Tita Omega who celebrated her recent birthday. The fund can fully finance the construction of a house of the families affected by Typhoon Haiyan in Northern Cebu.
The event was held last 27 September 2014, 9am-5pm at Springers Leisure Centre in Keysborough. In addition to an eight-team basketball tournament (teams entered by various churches around Melbourne), there were special entertainment, games, food, and other fundraising activities.
Aside from raising funds for Project Tahanan, the event aims to build awareness of Gawang Laya and the Project; help develop a sense of community amongst those participating; and provide young people the opportunity to contribute to a worthwhile cause. Funds raised will go directly to Project Tahanan.
“Our goal isn’t just about building a shelter, we hope to build homes, help a community, and raise awareness regarding the climate change issue that is affecting the poorest of the poor first and foremost,” said Marbuen Diaz, Founder and Director of Gawang Laya.
A day of fun and charity
Graeme Miller, one of the organisers, said they ended up having eight teams playing, plenty of volunteers and a BBQ. He thanked all the players, spectators, referees, volunteers and donors who contributed to make Raise the Roof 2014 a great success.
Gawang Laya exists to build networks across Australia and the Philippines, by joining in what God is already doing, partnering with local practitioners, and serving all people in need. These networks are for the purpose of catalysing projects that help alleviate spiritual and physical poverty. For more details, visit its website: www.gawanglaya.com.au.
Project Tahanan aims to rebuild 32 homes that were totally damaged during Typhoon Haiyan in Camuboan District, Tabogon City, Cebu, Philippines. It has partnership with Gawang Laya, Cebu City Alliance Church, and Micah Challenge Philippines. For more information, please visit www.projecttahanan.org.
