Last June, about 132 children enrolled at the local school in Baclayan, a small mountain community consisting of Iraya Mangyans. However, the average attendance rate was anywhere between 20-30 students. A needs analysis revealed that the main reason for the children’s absence was hunger.
With active participation from the parents, Stairway’s Community Assistance Program now prepares and serves a nutritious meal for the students everyday. School attendance has more than tripled and the students are more alert and ready to learn.