Early childhood development is an essential part of a child’s growth that starts at home and is further strengthened in schools and community centers. Since 2002, Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Philippines, Inc. (RMHC) has recognized that not all Filipino children have equal access to opportunities that support their development and have since remained committed to supporting early child development in local communities in need.
Laying Foundations for a Brighter, Happier Tomorrow
Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), McDonald’s Philippines’ charity of choice, has been building learning centers known as the Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit across the country to support communities by providing safe spaces where children can learn and play. Every Bahay Bulilit is open to low-income families, offering a place where parents can entrust their children with accredited daycare workers, ensuring the children engage in age-appropriate learning activities and play.
“Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit is one of our flagship programs that bring to life RMHC’s mission of supporting Filipino children’s need for shelter, education, and happiness. We are grateful for the support of McDonald’s Philippines, our government and community partners in forging a better, brighter, and happier tomorrow for the kids,” said Marie Angeles, Executive Director of RMHC.
Each Bahay Bulilit is a collaboration wherein RMHC through McDonald’s Philippines, constructs the learning center, the LGU donates the land where the learning center is built, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) provides trained and capable social workers to ensure the quality of the children’s learning. This way, parents are assured that their children’s welfare and safety are prioritized.
A Cradle of Hope and Light
More than a daycare center, each Bahay Bulilit answers a community’s need for safe spaces where their children can learn and socialize. The learning centers are carefully built to incorporate facilities that contribute to the learning experience of around 90-100 children on average per learning center.
The primary feature of a Bahay Bulilit is the Learner’s Area where children are taught basic lectures on values and ethics. A Reading Corner is also placed inside the learning center to encourage early appreciation for reading where children get to read interesting stories with the help of the social workers.
While in the Play Corner, children are encouraged to have fun, express creativity, and learn to make friends among their peers. Basic hygiene is also taught among little ones through the help of the Handwash Area and separate comfort rooms for boys and girls.
Being a “house for the little ones,” the Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit enriches and cradles big dreams that grant underserved Filipino children the chance to receive quality childhood education that is critical in their formative years.
On to a brighter future
In a span of two decades, RMHC now has opened 38 active Bahay Bulilit learning centers nationwide and has supported over 78,500 Filipino children to date. Celebrating its most recent turnover last July 31, 2023, RMHC has opened its doors to another Bahay Bulilit at Brgy. Alapan 1-A, Imus, Cavite.
McDonald’s Philippines is always actively searching for ways to be a step ahead in helping the communities they serve. Through the quick service restaurant giant’s support, RMHC aims to open its third Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit within the year in San Fernando, Pampanga. The location of each learning center is strategically decided based on the needs of the community as well as the recommendation of the local government.
“As a company with a mission to create feel-good moments for all, McDonald’s Philippines recognizes its responsibility and ability to make a positive impact in communities. We are committed to support RMHC in building a brighter future for Filipino children through learning,” said Margot Torres, McDonald’s Philippines’ Managing Director.
To learn about Ronald McDonald House Charities or RMHC Philippines and how to help, visit www.rmhc.org.ph.
To learn more about McDonald’s Philippines, visit www.mcdonalds.com.ph, McDo.ph on Facebook, @mcdo_ph on Instagram, @McDo_PH on Twitter.
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