This site is a tribute to the men, women, children, leaders and members of various organizations of Concepcion, Iloilo who poured whatever they can to contribute to this divine project intended to eradicate poverty, dependence, ignorance, and everything that stems from these.With the town's father, Mayor Raul Banas [ban yas] as the Chairman, and  Mr. Armando Manderico as the hands-on Project Manager, Gawad Kalinga of Concepcion was initiated without second thoughts and without looking back. Their vision is clear, and their mission even clearer. This project is nowhere to go but up, which would mean shelter, education, health, livelihood, and development for the poorest but deserving citizens of this community. This site will be updated as constantly as the progress of this sublime endeavor.

 

Gawad Kalinga is the name of this project. Concepcion is just one of the many places in the Philippines that answered this call for a better and lasting change. It was originally conceived by the Couples For Christ Foundation and became a reality through multi-sectoral efforts. The GK's five (5) basic programs, as mentioned above, are: shelter, education, health, livelihood, and community development.  These encompass all the major aspects of  man's need in present and competitive society.  With those guiding principles, every step of this task  is bound to succeed.

Gawad Kalinga (GK) , translated in English means to give care, and it is an alternative solution to the blatant problem of poverty not just in the Philippines but the world. Its approach is integrated, holistic and sustainable a concrete action plan to rebuild this nation by harnessing the best of the Filipino our faith and our patriotism.

What started barely five years ago in the Philippines as a simple but daring initiative by Couples for Christ has now become a growing multi-sectoral partnership driven by a vision of a new Philippines with NO MORE SLUMS. Together with its partners, Gawad Kalinga is now in the process of transforming poverty-stricken areas, many of them now empowered to further improve their quality of life! And the heart-work of GK volunteers is evident in the beautiful colors of the GK homes that have been built for and with the poorest of the poor Filipino families nationwide.

The transformation is astounding. Slums are disappearing. Rich and poor, Muslims and Christians, government and the private sector are building communities together. The poor are re-discovering their dreams, and are being empowered to build a better future for their families. The stories of how not only the poor but also the donors have been transformed continue to grow.

Gawad Kalingas achievements are a reflection of the sharing among different classes in society, and the partnership involving all sectors of society bridging the gaps that divide us as people. We are also building International Villages, showing that poverty can be addressed if rich and poor nations learn to share resources to create a better world for all.

The introduction and definition of Gawad Kalinga was quoted from the official website http://www.gawadkalinga.org.