It all started with a simple heart of wanting to bless 120 less privileged children with gifts for last children’s day. As much as Francesca, a university undergraduate would like to, it was not within her financial ability to do so. Thus, Francesca started appealing for sponsors and suppliers who can provide stationary sets and plush toys at a low cost.

The response was overwhelming. Her friends may not be rich, but they gave as much as they could. Many helped to spread the word around and there were even young children who contributed their savings! 

Within 2 days, not only were there sufficient funds to bless the 120 children, there were sufficient funds to bless 222 more! 

Through this, she saw the power of community; she saw the philosophy of community work.

 

“The resources are always in the community.

All we need is someone to mobilize, coordinate and implement!”

~Dr. Sudha Nair

 

Francesca has since founded BLESS* and currently chairs the BLESS committee.