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Last December 23,2012, alumni members of Lourdes School Quezon City, together with some family members and friends, gathered at the Union Rescue Mission | The Way Home in downtown LA - a family center providing food, clothing and shelter to the less fortunate. URM is a non-profit organization dedicated to serving men, women, and children experiencing homelessness. It was established in 1891 and is currently the oldest and one of the largest rescue missions of its kind in the United States.

The group acted as volunteers in support of the organization's slogan, We embrace people experiencing homelessness with the compassion of Christ - giving hope and healing for a changed life - helping them find their way home.

The team, consisting of fifteen members, called this project Operation Gratitude which aimed to share time and service to those in need. The members fully realized that despite the trials that may have come our way, we are still blessed and should share with the less fortunate and the homeless our time to give them hope for a happier life.


The operation started with the simple act of preparing food and was followed by an actual display of sharing by serving meals to the hungry. After the meal, the volunteers distributed donated socks and underwear outside the center. Before the day ended, the team members shared their views, thoughts and feelings on what transpired during the event. Some of them can still be recalled as follows:

I just realized that self fulfillment comes in many ways. When one gives his time to share and to serve without hesitation, especially during times when hapless people need importance and sense of belonging, I somehow feel fulfilled. I am blessed to have the chance to participate in Operation Gratitude, echoed by Lee Justin Melchor.

How else could I spend a day so meaningful but to share ample time in serving food to the homeless. This is nothing compared to what others are doing and giving. This makes my heart lighter, uttered by Ralph Dennis Ondivilla.
Reuhben Dumlao said, What a way to see realities. We are just stone throw away from where the needy are and yet, it only takes this time of the year that we remember them. What if we make the operation a commitment and do it twice a year? I seemed to see in the homeless eyes their hopes for a next time

Carol Leap who was with her daughter Alex said, In the beginning, while the needy started forming the queue, I felt heaviness in my heart. I could have let this operation pass in exchange for another invitation. Thank God that after a little prayer, I was able to use good judgment otherwise, that is regrettable. I now look forward to another day when I can willingly spend it with the less fortunate.