Behind every meal served at the Walang Gutom Kitchen (WGK) are compassionate volunteers and dedicated workers, whose service helps bring delicious and nutritious food to those in need.
For Mark Joseph Arietta, being named “Volunteer of the Day” at the WGK was more than a recognition—it was a deeply humbling reminder of how service, even without financial contribution, can create meaningful change in the lives of others.
Through his volunteer work at the WGK, he witnessed firsthand how kindness can be served alongside food. What stood out to him most was not only the mission of feeding the hungry, but the unexpected quality of the facility and service they provided.
“Yung facility, hindi ko ini-expect na ganito na napaka-taas ng standard. Kasi syempre usually ang clients dito ang pinapakain ‘yung mga unfortunate na kababayan natin and pagpasok mo dito, parang nasa restaurant,” Mark Joseph said.
The experience left a lasting impact on him, reinforcing the idea that volunteerism is not measured by money alone, but by time, presence, and sincere concern for others.
For Mark Joseph, the WGK showed that anyone can be a part of something bigger by simply choosing to serve.
“The experience was a humbling experience kasi just imagine, pwede pala ‘yung ganito kahit na hindi ka magbigay financially ng tulong, but by simply giving your time, your service to other people, so malaking bagay na ‘yun and ang pinagsisilbihan natin dito mga kapwa nating Pilipino,” Mark Joseph said.
The WGK volunteer hastens to add: “Napakaganda dahil just imagine, pwede kang makakain ng almusal ng libre, pwede kang makakain ng tanghalian ng libre, lalo na kung ikaw ay kinakapos. So at least, maitawid mo man lang yung pamilya mo.
*Young social worker reflects on work*
While the efforts of volunteers and donors are significant, the role of social workers remains essential in reaching the deeper needs of the vulnerable.
One of the dedicated professionals of the Pag-abot program, Princess Kolinn Enilda, a Social Welfare Officer (SWO) II, embodies the spirit of service and perseverance in the world of social work.
The Pag-abot program is the Department’s intervention to help families and individuals in street situations (FISS), providing them with holistic support and helping them in their reintegration to help them start a new life off the streets.
“Honestly, pinasok ko ang social work profession na hindi ko talaga alam kung ano siya. Akala ko dati course lang siya. But through learning and real-life exposure, doon ko mas naintindihan and na-embrace yung propesyon na Social Work,” Princess Kolinn said.
Princess shared how social work is about service and compassion, and how it allows her to be a part of the meaningful change in the lives of others.
She explained how the Pag-abot program drew her in, inspired by a friend who shared fulfilling experiences as a social worker.
Pinning her interest on programs that directly assist individuals and families in street situations, Princess Kolinn has this to say: “Pinili ko yung Pag-abot kasi ito ay literal na pag-abot talaga sa mga nasa laylayan ng lipunan. Dito makikita mo yung consistency ng programa, yung kanilang genuine care sa alam nating mga sektor na mas nangangailangan ng tulong.”
Her work has revealed the importance of patience, empathy, and understanding, as each beneficiary has unique needs and circumstances.
“Ang social work, hindi siya madali kung magpapakatotoo ako, sobrang hirap siya hindi siya madali. Pero kung nais mo na pumasok sa propesyon na merong saysay at totoong may impact, talagang may impact, social work is worth choosing,” Princess Kolinn pointed out.
She also emphasized the transformative effect the profession gives on a social worker like her, shaping values and deepening compassion for others.
The commitment of volunteers and social workers together forms a powerful force in uplifting the vulnerable and marginalized.
While volunteers help provide immediate relief through food and resources, social workers like Princess Kolinn ensure that interventions reach those who need them most, creating lasting change. (KI)
