The Problem We Address

Persistent poverty cycle among urban poor families in the Philippines

Limited access to early childhood education and safe after-school care

Mothers lack pathways to dignified, income-generating livelihoods

Underprivileged students need affordable, safe housing to complete college

Youth need safe, values-based spaces for recreation, wellness, and formation

Our Mission and Approach

Transforming lives through compassionate service, DSH empowers vulnerable communities with holistic development for dignity, resilience, and self-sufficiency.

Holistic Education (Mind)

Daycare, school-readiness programs, and learning resources for children and students

Livelihood & Wellness (Body)

Income-generating skills for mothers, safe housing, recreation facilities

Formation & Values (Spirit)

Creating spaces for spiritual growth, community connections, and personal development

Sustainable Impact

Revenue-generating projects ensuring long-term financial viability and community ownership

Holistic Mission Model Intersecting circles representing Mind, Body, and Spirit, converging to form Whole Empowered Communities. MIND Education BODY Livelihood SPIRIT Formation WHOLE EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES

Two Transformative Projects

Manila Community Empowerment Center

€1,469,000

Day Care

30 children benefit; morning sessions for paying families, afternoon sessions free for low-income children

Livelihood for Mothers

Traditional Filipino snack-making and "Beads of Hope" handicrafts - 15 mothers trained quarterly

Multipurpose Hall

Space for conferences and seminars generating income through rentals

Student Lodging ("Home of Hope")

Safe, affordable accommodation for 15 underprivileged college students

Solar System Installation

€45,000 investment for sustainable energy and reduced operational costs

Bataan Retreat & Sustainability Center

€1,361,000

Recreational Facilities

Basketball court and swimming pool engaging 150-200 youth monthly

Coffee Shop & Souvenir Shop

Revenue-generating activities promoting local crafts and products

Organic Garden (800 sqm)

Supporting sustainability and wellness programs with fresh produce

Lodging & Retreat Spaces

Near Mount Samat - a historic and spiritual destination for reflection

Values-Based Tourism

Filipino hospitality, environmental stewardship, and spiritual enrichment

Social Impact & Beneficiaries

30+

Children served annually
School readiness & nutrition

60+

Mothers trained per year
Income generation & skills

15+

Students housed
Safe housing for college

200+

Youth engaged monthly
Recreation & wellness

SDG Alignment

SDG 1: No Poverty SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being SDG 4: Quality Education SDG 5: Gender Equality SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

Financial Overview

Financial Overview (Comprehensive)

Detailed breakdown of the comprehensive project budget
Manila (Infrastructure) €1,469,000
Manila Furnishings €220,108
Manila Staff (3-year) €194,029
Bataan Retreat Center €1,361,000
Admin + Contingencies (15%) €486,620
Total €3,730,757

Timeline & Milestones

18

Months
Total project duration

548

Working Days
Construction duration

4

Key Phases
Planning to launch

Join Us in Building Sustainable, Life-Changing Community Assets

Grants & Catalytic Donations

CAPEX and OPEX bridge funding to establish both centers

Impact Investment

Revenue-backed, programmatic investment tranches with social return

In-kind Support

Furnishings, solar equipment, technology, and skills training

Sponsorships & Naming

Halls, programs, scholarships, and equipment naming opportunities

Contact Us

Sr. Marianne Farrugia, DSH

"Love is for us the leading energy as well as the ultimate goal."

- Maria Teresa Nuzzo, Foundress