More than P246,000 in financial assistance was recently released by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to 47 victims, survivors, children in conflict with the law (CICL) and peer helpers in Himamaylan City.
The City SWD Office and Office of the City Mayor assisted in the release of the cash aid to 14 college peer helpers and 32 beneficiaries classified as victims, survivors, and CICLs by the DSWD during a program on May 6, a press release said.
“Whether they are in conflict with the law or have surmounted distressing experiences, we need to help our children and youth find hope,” Mayor Raymund Tongson said.
It is heartwarming that some of our beneficiaries plan to use the financial assistance to start a business and start a new chapter in their lives, he said.
The city government will continuously support the youth through academic, psychosocial, and livelihood programs, he said.
Tongson also urged young Himamaylanons who are undergoing distress, abuses, bullying, or are involved in illegal activities to seek help from the city government through the CSWDO and the local police station.
“Every youth deserves a second chance. All they have to do is ask for help or report incidences,” Tongson said.*