With the excitement of presents as Christmas approaches, an inspiring video by child rights group Save the Children provides us an insight into the hopes of many poor children this season of giving – and it is not one would expect.
What would you ask for Christmas?
Developed in partnership with Bates CHI & Partners, the video entitled “An Ordinary Christmas Carol” lists children’s wishes which many people would normally overlook, such as eating pork adobo (stew), taking a shower at least once a day, having an own toilet to use, and an opportunity to study, play and watch TV.
Watch “An Ordinary Christmas Carol” here:
Save the Children Country Director, Ned Olney, said: “In our 35 years of experience working in poor communities in the Philippines, we learned that children in need just want the most ordinary things. Particularly in an aftermath of a disaster where families have lost their homes and livelihoods, children often worry if their parents could still afford a meal or to send them to school.”
According to Save the Children’s 2015 hunger and malnutrition report called “Sizing Up”, over 1.5 million children go through an entire day without eating. The study also reveals that 1 in 3 Filipino children is stunted or too short for their age. In 2016, Save the Children calculated that the Philippines economy loses P 326.5 billion due to malnutrition every year.
Olney added: “We often feel overwhelmed and helpless when we hear about the struggles of children living in poverty. This video encourages us to see that we can contribute something and make a difference in the lives of children.”
To take part in Save the Children’s campaign, visit www.ordinarythings.ph
