Building Homes, Spreading Hope: Philippines Mission Trip

Hi, my name is Arcangelo Orozco, and I’m a grade 11 student at Senator O'Connor College School. I’m working alongside Christine DeCastro, who is also in grade 11. Together, we are raising $6,000 each to participate in a life-changing mission trip to the Philippines.

But before I explain more about our trip, I want to ask you something: What’s the best Christmas gift you’ve ever received? For many of us, it might be something material like a toy, gadget, or clothing. But imagine if the greatest gift you could receive was something as simple as a roof over your head—a safe place to call home.

In the Philippines, homelessness is a major issue. With a population of over 113 million people, the country has a population density far higher than Canada’s. Millions of families live in poverty, struggling to afford basic necessities like food and shelter. It’s estimated that around 4.5 million Filipinos are homeless, many living in makeshift houses or without any shelter at all.

Our mission is to help change that. We want to give these families the ultimate gift—the gift of a home.

This mission trip, organized by the Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB) in collaboration with ANCOP (Answering the Cry of the Poor), will take us to various communities in Manila and nearby provinces to help build homes for families in need. This service trip is not only an opportunity to witness and respond to the struggles of those living in extreme poverty, but it’s also a way for us to live out our faith in a deeply meaningful way. Guided by the principles of Catholic Social Teaching, we believe in the dignity of every human being and the call to serve our brothers and sisters in need. Through our efforts—whether it be gift-giving, feeding programs, or building homes for families in ANCOP villages in Manila, Tarlac, and Bulacan—we hope to bring Christ’s love and compassion to those who need it most.

The majority of the money we raise will go directly toward supplies to build homes for families in need, as well as gifts and presents for those who otherwise could not afford them. Your donation will not only support our travel expenses but will also provide the essential materials needed to create lasting change in these communities.

As students of faith, we understand that our mission is about more than just material help. It’s about building relationships, spreading hope, and acting as instruments of God’s love. By serving others, we grow spiritually and deepen our commitment to following Christ’s example of selflessness and kindness.

We would greatly appreciate your support in helping us raise the necessary funds. Your donation will not only allow us to travel and assist those in need, but it will also enable us to carry out God’s work, bringing hope and comfort to those we serve.

Thank you so much for your generosity and for helping us make a positive impact through faith and service!