Pinoys in Europe get food aid using online form set in Filipino language

A total of 236 Filipinos in The Netherlands have initially gotten help as they begin to use an online application form set in Filipino language by the Filipino LGBT Europe foundation and The Netherlands Red Cross for a food aid program.

“Although many Filipinos here understand and speak the English language fluently, there are still a few who are not so confident with it. This is the group that we are taking care of when we suggested having a Filipino version of the website. We want to make sure that when we respond especially in giving help, we are mindful of the weak, the elderly and minority in our society,” said Chris Sta. Brigida, chairperson of the Filipino LGBT Europe, in a statement sent via Messenger on January 21.

Filipino LGBT Europe. Photo courtesy of  Chris Sta. Brigida

Starting January 23, everyone in the Netherlands must stay indoors between 9 p.m. to 4.30 a.m. and non-essential businesses will be closed until February 9.

“Now we can send help to people directly. We can have peace of mind that those who lost their jobs will not be hungry and they will receive grocery vouchers every week directly on their smartphones,” he added.

Prior to the new lockdown, the Filipino LGBT Europe distributed 1,230 food packs to 688 persons and 4,048 grocery food vouchers to 5,278.

With the weekly digital grocery vouchers, the group would be able to help out till May 31 to “many more expected to be added in the program.”

“We are able to do all of what we have done since March 2020 because of the LOVE and SUPPORT of all our volunteers. Lahat kami sa Ayuda sa Amsterdam Team ay volunteers. Lahat may pinagdadanan, nawalan din ng trabaho ang ilan, at may pamilyang may sakit. But they are here every week to help others. This is very inspiring to see, to witness and I am very proud and happy to be part of it," Sta. Brigida said.  —LBG, GMA News