We believe that a lot of impoverished mothers have the chance to elevate their and their children’s living standards if only allowed to do so. Because of this, we started our One Hope Microfinance Program to provide microloans starting at PHP 6,000 (USD 102).

Summer in the Philippines just hit differently. Starting in March, the dry season begins, and in many parts of the country, it means one thing: halo-halo and mais con hielo season. Joana knows this all too well, so this means adjusting her business to meet her community’s needs. In front of her store, she set up a halo-halo stand among other refreshing treats for customers looking to cool down.

 

A woman poses in front of a table laden with an array of ingredients to make halo-halo.
Joana and her halo-halo station.

 

Before this season, Joana put up a barbecue stand in place of her now halo-halo station. This adaptability kept her business active throughout the year. Despite seasonal changes, she was able to maintain a steady income, and we commended her for her creativity. Filipinos are known for being maparaan or resourceful, and Joana embodies exactly that.

Moreover, Joana also serves as an officer in her fellowship group. She actively helps assess new clients interested in joining, working alongside the team to ensure those who enter the program are ready and committed. We continue to involve fellowship officers in this process so that each group builds a sense of ownership and responsibility for one another.

We are grateful for dedicated leaders like Joana, who not only manage their own businesses well but also faithfully serve their fellowship community.

 


 

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