Philippines: Shrine Launches Lenten Drive to Support Drop-in Center for Street Dwellers

A Philippine shrine has launched a Lenten initiative encouraging parishioners to convert personal sacrifices into financial support for a planned facility serving persons in street-dwelling situations (PSDS).

Through the “Saving Sacrifice Pouch” project, St. Joseph Shrine in Quezon City, Metro Manila, invites the faithful to set aside money they would normally spend on nonessential items, such as specialty coffee or dining out, and donate it to help fund the construction of the “Kasama Ka, San Jose – Kaagapay Drop-in Center.”

According to parish organizers, the drop-in center will provide basic services for street dwellers, including hygiene facilities, laundry access, rest areas, and meals through the parish feeding program, “Hapag ni San Jose.” The project aims to move beyond temporary assistance by establishing a more structured and sustainable support system.

Planners said the center will also host livelihood training, capacity-building activities, and leadership formation programs. The initiative seeks to involve PSDS not only as beneficiaries but as participants in programs affecting their welfare.

Christina, 45, who is identified as a community leader among street dwellers along Aurora Boulevard, welcomed the program.

“Before, we were only allowed outside the church. Now, we are welcomed, and there are projects to help people like us,” she said. She added that she encourages others in her community to take part in the initiative while observing the Lenten season.

Parish representatives said the project is designed to align Lenten practices such as fasting and self-denial with social engagement. Funds collected through the pouches will go directly to the construction and implementation of services at the drop-in center.

Organizers said the project reflects a pastoral approach that integrates spiritual observance with concrete support for marginalized groups. They noted that redirecting personal spending toward social programs can contribute to longer-term community development.

The Saving Sacrifice Pouch campaign will run throughout the Lenten season.