Vancouver, BC, 22 December 2024 – For six years, the University of the Philippines Alumni Association in British Columbia (UPAABC) has brought warmth, compassion, and hope to Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside residents, particularly at the Door is Open at 255 Dunlevy. This annual Outreach and Feeding Program has become a cherished tradition for our volunteers and those we serve, embodying the values that define every UP alumnus: honour, excellence, and service.
Each December, UPAABC gathers a dedicated group of volunteers, united in a common goal: to positively impact the lives of individuals in one of Vancouver’s most vulnerable communities.
Through the blessing bags and hot meals we provide, we are not merely giving food and supplies—we are sharing the spirit of Christmas, showing that kindness, no matter how small, can make a difference.
A Heartfelt Upgrade to Service
This year’s program marks another step forward in improving our outreach efforts. Recognising the generosity of our donors, we have introduced significant upgrades that reflect the changing needs of those we serve and our commitment to excellence in service.
One of the most notable changes is the replacement of the Ziplock and plastic bags with drawstring bags. This upgrade came as a direct response to the feedback from our guests, many of whom requested a more ambulatory and reusable option. The choice of drawstring bags demonstrates our responsiveness to those we serve and embodies our commitment to sustainability. These bags are easier to carry, more practical, and, most importantly, reflect the dignity of those receiving them. The UPAABC’s willingness to listen and adapt to the community’s needs is a testament to the excellence that our alumni hold dear.
In addition to the bags, we have significantly improved the meals we serve. Adding chicken strips and soup alongside our traditional spaghetti and vegetables means we can offer our guests a more varied, heartier menu. The simple yet essential act of nourishing those who are hungry becomes even more meaningful when we consider the effort to provide a meal that can bring comfort and joy. For many of our guests, a hot meal during the winter season is not just food but a symbol of care, respect, and community.
Honoring Volunteers and Upholding the Values of Service
A crucial element of the UPAABC’s Outreach and Feeding Program is the involvement of our volunteers, whose time and effort ensure that this event runs smoothly every year. This year, we are incredibly proud to share that, for the first time, our volunteers have been treated to a hearty, special meal—lomi, a cross of Filipino and Chinese traditional food—thanks to the generosity of Lory Atencia from Cucina Balai. This warm and comforting dish acknowledges their sacrifices to be part of this vital cause.
The role of a UP alumnus goes beyond professional achievement—it is rooted in a lifelong commitment to honour, excellence, and service. The act of volunteering for this program is a manifestation of these core values. It is not just about the time spent or the tasks completed; it is about embodying the spirit of service and giving back to the community. UP alumni are taught that excellence is achieved through individual success and collective efforts that significantly impact delivering our promised goal. Every volunteer who joins the program brings this ethos with them, whether they are handing out blessing bags, serving meals, or simply offering a friendly smile to those in need.
The Spirit of Giving: A Collective Effort
This year, UPAABC set a goal to raise enough funds and donations to support 150 individuals. Each donation, whether $15 to sponsor a person’s meal and blessing bag or in-kind contributions of essential items, made a tangible difference in those who need it most. The outreach program serves as a reminder that the true spirit of Christmas is about receiving and giving selflessly without expecting anything in return.
The generosity shown by our alumni, friends, and partners is a testament to the power of community. Each donation, no matter how small, is a sure element to the success of this program. It reflects the values of UP alums: to lead with compassion and uplift others whenever possible. This collective effort ensures that the program grows and reaches more individuals yearly.
Looking Ahead: A Tradition of Excellence
As we look to the future, UPAABC remains committed to expanding the scope of our outreach efforts. Each year, we strive to improve our services and ensure that the spirit of giving thrives. The blessings we give are not just material—they express the values we hold dear: honour, excellence, and service.
The UPAABC’s Annual Outreach and Feeding Program is not just an event. It is a powerful reminder that service to others is at the heart of what it means to be a UP alumnus. It’s about coming together as a community to serve with dignity, care, and respect. It’s about understanding that the smallest gestures—like a meal, a kind word, or a blessing bag—can comfort those who need it most.
As we celebrate this year’s success, we look forward to another year of service, knowing that our values will continue to guide us in making a difference, one act of kindness at a time. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all who made this program possible. We couldn’t have done it without you. We hope to partner with you again next year!
(MBB)
By Bella Balisi-Bevilacqua
