One Nourished Child at a Time—Relaunch of "Feed A Child, Build A Nation" Program at F. Benitez Elementary School Main

On July 29, 2025, the Rotary Club of Makati North (RCMN) and the Inner Wheel Club of Makati North (IWCMN) proudly relaunched their legacy project, “Feed A Child, Build A Nation,” at Francisco Benitez Elementary School – Main, benefiting 100 Grade 1 pupils. The program will run from July 28 to December 2025 (100 school days), in close partnership with the Rotaract and Rotary Community Corps (RCC) of Barangay Sta. Cruz.

The event began with a warm welcome and opening remarks from Dr. Paulo Badua, the school’s principal, who expressed gratitude for the long-standing partnership and emphasized the vital role nutrition plays in academic readiness and child development.

Inspirational messages followed from IWCPI District Chair Dra. Argie Villajin, IWCMN President Maritess Cordero, RCMN Unite for Good President Tito Meneses, and IPP Boy Sevilla, all underscoring their clubs’ unwavering commitment to serving the community, especially its most vulnerable beneficiaries. 

They were joined by DepEd Public Schools District Supervisor Aileen Hernal, who commended the Rotary and Inner Wheel Clubs for their sustained support. Special attention was drawn to the program’s significance, as many of the student beneficiaries come from the Manila South Cemetery and Ponte Street, both known for challenging living conditions.

A key highlight of the morning was the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between all partner organizations. This formalized a shared commitment to uplift the well-being of the children through regular feeding, health monitoring, and community involvement. The relaunch marks the continuation of a meaningful project that not only feeds bodies but also fuels dreams and bright futures.

Objectives of the Feeding Program

The "Feed A Child, Build A Nation" program is guided by the following objectives:

• Improve Nutritional Status: Provide nutritious meals to ensure children receive essential nutrients vital for healthy growth and development.

• Enhance Academic Performance: Combat hunger to enable better focus and learning in the classroom.

• Reduce Absenteeism: Encourage consistent school attendance by addressing one of the main barriers—lack of access to food.

• Promote Healthy Eating Habits: Introduce and reinforce the value of balanced, nutritious diets at an early age.

• Support Physical Development: Help pupils meet key developmental milestones by sustaining their energy and strength throughout the school day.

• Boost Self-Esteem and Well-being: Alleviating hunger fosters confidence, energy, and active participation in school life.

• Engage the Community: Bring together parents, teachers, and local volunteers in a united effort to uplift the next generation.

  
  

The relaunch of this program signifies more than just meals served—it represents hope, compassion, and community-driven change. Through continued collaboration, Rotary and Inner Wheel reaffirm their mission to unite and serve to change lives, one nourished child at a time.