Food On Wheels
Refurbishing food carts to fight under-nutrition in Barangay 105 through NGO collaboration.
| Project Title | Food On Wheels |
|---|---|
| Year | 2024 |
| Location | Tondo |
| Country | Philippines |
| Genre | Nutrition |
| Lead Name(s) | Lhana Cruz & Keziah Bayson |
| School(s) | UWC Adriatic, UWC South East Asia |
| Other Organisations | Bless the Children Foundation, an NGO implementing health and wellness programs for 530 children |
| Value | $1,930 |
| Project Report |
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Background
The Food on Wheels project was able to provide five refurbished, flood-resistant food carts to underserved communities in Tondo, Manila. In partnership with Bless the Children Foundation (BCFI), these food carts were designed to distribute daily meals and promote the educational opportunities of UWC. 
Through expanding the NGO’s feeding programs, we reached more children and high-need areas that are considered food insecure.
Throughout the project, we ensured consistent meal distribution while creating sustained employment opportunities for community members who manage the carts, helping them to have a stable livelihood. Each cart also promotes the United World College movement, allowing marginalized people to see the potential educational opportunities that are available to them.
Also, we focused on creating long-term sustainability through forming partnerships with BCFI. This collaboration with an NGO ensures the project’s continuation and potential growth even after our initial involvement. We believe that this partnership is crucial to the long-term success of the initiative.
Mission Statement
To increase access to safe and nutritious food in impoverished neighborhoods of Tondo in Manila, Philippines.
How the Funding Was Used
The funding was used on food carts and materials to help with the distribution of food, for example casserole pots
WHERE THE MONEY WAS SPENT
Food carts $1,100
Cart Materials $125
Cart Equipment $100
Tarpaulin $105
Casserole Pots $240
Additional Expenses $229
How They Made A Difference
We provided a practical solution to food insecurity through refurbished food carts, but more importantly, we contributed a sense of hope and empowerment within the community. Seeing the gratitude and relief of those we helped reaffirmed that our efforts had a real impact on their lives.
THE ENDURING SUCCESSES OF THE PROJECT
● Consistent meal distribution, even in harsh conditions.
● Increased reach and capacity, and the possibility of additional locations (depending on the NGO’s resources).
● Sustained employment opportunities for community members manning the cart.
● Promotion of the UWC movement through BCFI.
● Sustainability through NGO partnerships allows the FOW initiative to remain active.
How The Project Made A Difference for the Volunteers
This was our first time implementing a grassroots initiative and we found it truly transformative. Returning to our home country and now having the tangible resources to help our community gave us a deeper connection to the work. Seeing the direct impact of our efforts on the children in need and the relief and gratitude of BCFI employees made the experience fulfilling.
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The journey of the project showed us that even small, grassroots efforts can make a lasting difference when they are rooted in empathy and collaboration.