I want to introduce an amazing
opportunity to positively impact the homeless in the Philippines. To
do that, I need to give you some background information (Part 1).
Then I’ll let you know how you can help (Part 2).
First of all, you’re probably
wondering, what is a Jeepney?
This is a good question, which I alsodid not know a month ago. Jeepneys are common forms of public
transportation in the Philippines. Basically, they are remodeled
jeeps with two long benches in the back to sit as many people as
possible. For about 5-10 pesos (less than 20 cents), you can get a
ride for several miles. They are quite a sight on the streets. Most
are extravagantly painted and decorated. Some have loud horns or
music to make the experience even more interesting. Drivers make
change, switch lanes, honk their horn, look for people on the side of the road and jam
to their music all at the same time. It’s pretty amazing really,
mostly amazing that there aren’t more wrecks!
Riding in a jeepney with Glenalyn, Leyna, Rachael and Andrea.
Now, let me tell you about the Jeepney
magazine.
The Jeepney magazine is the Philippines
(and actually Asia’s), first street magazine. I had never heard of
street magazines before, but the United States even has some, and
they are quite popular in Europe. Basically, they are magazines about
the homeless and people living in poverty. They create awareness by
including stories and photographs of the people as well as provide
jobs for some of them through selling the magazines.
The Jeepney magazine was started by
Americans Bill and Debbie Shaw. They chose the name Jeepney since
these vehicles are unique to the Philippines and a common site here.
Bill and Debbie created an organization called Urban Opportunities
for Change Foundation in November 2007 in order to publish the
Jeepney and to organize the Philippine Homeless World Cup team. Bill,
Debbie and their staff (mostly volunteers) work out of an office
right here at Kids International Ministries where we are staying.
Although, they have a great start, UOFC
is still seeking more success for their two important ministries.
Since this is the first street magazine and the first organization to
support a Filipino team for the Homeless World Cup, many challenges
arise. Making people aware of what they’re doing, getting support and
ultimately getting the word out on homelessness in the Philippines is
much harder than it seems.
Last week, I was able to go to
Intramuros, the old walled city of Manila, to do some promotion of
the magazine. They recently got a permit to sell in the area and are
hoping to get a vendor or two there but still need to get the word
out on the magazine in order for it to be successful. We handed out
some free magazines and told people about it. Each issue costs 100
pesos (about $2). Half of the amount goes to the vendor, who is
someone living in poverty. For some people, 100 pesos is a lot of
money. So, we have to find the right audience of people with
disposable income who also care about social change.
Stay tuned for my next blog with more
info on the Homeless World Cup and how you can help with these
ministries.
