Inspiring a Generation of Students

In May of 2025, a dedicated team of Franciscan missionaries and volunteers traveled to the Lampanusan Elementary School community, located in the Philippines in the municipality of Kalilangan, Bukidnon. Families in Barangay Lampanusan were struggling to provide essential school supplies for their children and the volunteers wanted to inspire the students’ academic growth.

The economy in Bukidnon is primarily agricultural and the harvest is not always sufficient to support families. Many people in the region are under the age of 23, so educational initiatives and youth-focused programs are important for the future of the community.

Spreading Joy

Before the outreach team arrived, the faculty, staff, students, and parents came together to celebrate Mass in gratitude for the event.

While at the school, the volunteers distributed school bags, notebooks, paper, crayons, pens and pencils, scissors, rulers, lunch boxes, glue, and more to the 490 eager students. To further support their well-being, the team also provided hygiene products including towels, toothpaste, toothbrushes, dishwashing liquid, and soap. To the children’s delight, the volunteers handed out McDonald’s burgers, lollipops, sweet drinks, and snacks, which spread much joy.

The outreach mission promoted better access to education, alleviated financial pressure, and increased school engagement in the community. The event ignited hope in the hearts of the students and encouraged them to pursue their studies. It was a great example of the Franciscan spirit of communion, compassion, generosity, and service, proving that acts of kindness can leave a profound impact on an entire community.