In a significant move to support children with disabilities, the CHERISH project, which stands for Children’s Health, Education, and Resources for Inclusion, Support and Hope, has been launched in San Jose de Buenavista, Antique. On October 24, 2024, Mayor Justin Encarnacion formalized the initiative by signing a memorandum of agreement with officials from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) at the Sheraton Manila Hotel in Pasay City. Amy Dava, head of the Persons with Disabilities Affairs Office (PDAO) in San Jose de Buenavista, announced that 100 children in the municipality will benefit from this project. The CHERISH project aims to provide comprehensive care and support to these children, focusing on those with severe disabilities who are in dire need. The initiative includes a monthly financial assistance of PHP2,000 for the beneficiaries, which can be used for health, education, and other essential needs. Additionally, the project will offer training for parents and caregivers on proper care and community-based rehabilitation. Dava expressed hope that the financial aid would help cover transportation costs for therapy sessions and purchase school supplies for the children attending classes. San Jose de Buenavista, with 309 children suffering mostly from cerebral palsy, has been selected as the pilot area for the Visayas region. The local government is also exploring ways to assist the remaining 209 children not covered by the CHERISH project.
