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Building Bridges of Hope: The S.T.A.F.F. Scholarship Initiative

The S.T.A.F.F. initiative, conceived under the guidance of Manresa School’s Outreach Program, is a heartfelt expression of compassion and fraternity. Rooted in the Gospel’s message, “Whatever you do to the least of my brethren, you do it to me,” the program reflects the shared mission of the office staff and maintenance personnel to uplift the lives of youth in need. Through thoughtful contributions and unwavering commitment, the S.T.A.F.F. outreach activity goes beyond mere financial assistance, aiming to provide holistic support that shapes the academic, moral, and personal growth of its beneficiaries.

At the core of this initiative is a deep sense of solidarity, inspired by the charism of Mo. Candida, who taught that “God is our Father, and we are all brothers and sisters.” This powerful belief drives the staff to embody the school’s principle of “kapatid sa kapwa” in their daily actions. From financial aid to monthly enrichment activities, the staff members become pillars of support in the lives of the grantees and their families, ensuring their development extends beyond academics.

The S.T.A.F.F. program stands as a testament to the transformative impact of small but meaningful actions, proving that even modest contributions can ignite significant change. It is not only a scholarship program but a living expression of faith, compassion, and the collective effort of a community dedicated to creating brighter futures. Through their humble contributions, the staff members embrace their role as advocates of hope, empowering grantees to rise above challenges and pursue their dreams with confidence.

Named S.T.A.F.F. (Sharing our Thoughtfulness and Affection For your Future), the outreach activity has the following objectives: (1) To provide financial assistance to deserving youth who desire to study and finish school; and (2) To accompany the selected grantee in his/her formation through other moral, formative, and empowerment support.

The screening committee facilitated the selection process for the STAFF beneficiaries. Applicants were evaluated based on the following criteria: they must be incoming Grade 7 students with a General Average of at least 80% in all subject areas; possess good moral character; have no failing grades in any subject; have not committed any disciplinary infractions in school or the community; must not be biologically related to any personnel of Manresa School; and should not be recipients of any other educational scholarships from the government or private institutions. After a thorough and careful deliberation, two applicants, Mark Louie Caparino and Ralph Jian Manuel, were selected.

On August 22, 2024, the grant was officially awarded to them in the presence of their parents. Under a formalized Memorandum of Agreement, the Manresa School staff and maintenance personnel pledged to provide financial assistance covering any miscellaneous fees required by the school upon the grantee’s enrollment. In addition, each grantee will receive a complete set of essential school supplies, including a school bag, uniforms, PE uniform, shoes, notebooks, writing pads, and art materials necessary for their studies. A monthly allowance will also be provided at the start of each month. The scholarship granted to Louie and Ralph offers continuity until the completion of their Secondary Education, contingent upon the fulfillment of specific requirements: (a) no failing grades in any subjects and a General Average of at least 80%; (b) attendance in school, barring valid reasons for absence; (c) a disciplinary record free of infractions throughout the school year; and (d) active participation in Sunday Masses.

To foster stronger collaboration with the families of the grantees and provide them with moral support, the staff and maintenance personnel demonstrate their unwavering dedication to the grantees through their consistent monthly visits, where they actively engage in meaningful activities designed to nurture the grantees' development. These visits go beyond the mere delivery of financial support, as the staff and personnel invest their time and effort in fostering a sense of belonging and encouragement. From organizing sharing sessions to introducing them to the Manresan community and involving them in outreach activities for others, they tailor these activities to address the holistic growth of the grantees and their families. This ongoing presence affirms the staff's genuine commitment to not only support the grantees’ education but to also instill moral values, enhance their skills, and uplift their spirits as they journey toward a brighter future.

The monthly visits also serve as an opportunity to distribute the grantees’ allowances and monitor their academic performance. At the end of each grading period, grantees are required to submit a copy of their report cards to track their progress and ensure continued alignment with the scholarship requirements.

SEPTEMBER (Visit to the Homes of the Grantees)