Nothing is impossible for someone who has genuine kindness and compassion for the needy. This holds true in the case of beauty expert and philanthropist Ricky Reyes who, over the years, has perfectly exhibited what “giving back” means. Mother Ricky’s humble beginnings is an open book and it’s touching how he is able to come up with various projects that aim to uplift the plight of the underprivileged, considering his present societal stature.
One of these worthwhile projects is CHILD Haus, whose first five letters stand for: Center for Health Improvement and Life Development. Running on its 14th year now, this charitable institution is one of Mother Ricky’s banner undertakings in collaboration with SM Prime Holdings, Inc. President Hans Sy, who like the popular beauty czar has a compassionate heart by nature.
Actually, CHILD Haus happens to be a temporary shelter for indigent patients from different provinces who have cancer or other dreaded diseases and have no place to stay in Metro Manila while undergoing medical evaluation or treatment. They provide free room and boarding to its residents which can reach as high as 100. It is run along the principles of hospice care and promotes the concept of holistic care healing through its various programs, services and activities.
Apart from its rooms, CHILDHaus boasts facilities that make each occupant’s stay unforgettable and convenient at the same time. Located on Agoncillo Street in Paco, Manila, this 380-square meter, seven-story establishment has two dormitories for children and nine for adults. Unique in concept, it has a playground, play and learn room, entertainment area, social hall, library, dispensary, milk feeding, dining area, laundry room, isolation rooms for delicate patients, viewing deck and a garden.
Interestingly, apart from Mother Ricky and the generosity of Hans’ family, many local celebrities extend their helping hand and contribute in whatever way they can in the operations of CHILD Haus. Some of these stars who staunchly support its cause are: Karylle, ZsaZsa Padilla, Dingdong Dantes, Marian Rivera, Anne Curtis, Vic Sotto, Pauleen Luna, Daniel Padilla, Julia Montes, Karla Estrada, Ejay Falcon, Gloria Romero, Alicia Alonzo and Luis Manzano.
CHILD Haus has become renowned in the passing of times with various institutions such as government hospitals and charitable foundations and organizations maintain its stream of referrals of qualified patients not just here in Manila but in the provinces as well. And what’s good is that its location is just a short walk away from the Philippine General Hospital where they’re getting treatment, which makes it so convenient and easier for the sick kids.
Just recently, the charitable institution celebrated its annual Christmas party where Mother Ricky and Hans Sy mingled with the patients and through the help of other entities, they were able to make a difference in the lives of some of its present occupants, like giving a small business and a modest shelter to a mother and son pair who are in dire need of financial assistance.
As for the future of CHILD Haus, Mother Ricky avers, “I’m proud that we’re hitting our 14th year. I hope and pray that every day be a day of grace for all of us who want to help in this advocacy. I’ll always be forever grateful to all our benefactors and volunteers!”