In a remarkable demonstration of compassion and unity, JCI Manila unveiled the Shelter of Hope on January 29, 2025. This sanctuary, created in partnership with Hospicio de San Jose, is dedicated to providing Metro Manila’s homeless population with a new beginning. Continuing on the impact of the Electric Night Run for Hope on May 18, 2024, this effort demonstrates JCI Manila’s dedication to impactful, sustained, and revolutionary community development.
Shelter of Hope is not only a physical shelter but also hope and opportunity for the people who dream of a second chance. The partnership of JCI Manila and Hospicio de San Jose is a testament to the value of collaboration in dealing with societal problems. Through uniting resources and skills, they have developed an area that upholds dignity and empowerment among the homeless population.
This project has deeply touched the lives of homeless people in Metro Manila. Through filling their immediate needs and offering opportunities to achieve long-term stability, this project has become a symbol of hope for those who wish to have a second chance.
One of the most notable effects of the Shelter of Hope is that it is capable of giving instant relief to homeless people. Under the Night Shelter program, 150 street sleepers were provided with safe and comfortable accommodations. The recipients got bed foams, pillows, electric fans, and hot meals to provide them with their basic needs in a respectable manner. For some of them, this was their first taste of such support, providing them with relief from the cruel harshness of life on the streets.
Joselito, a 47-year-old beneficiary who had spent nine years living in the streets, called the program a “blessing.” He recounted how the shelter became a source of hope and a chance to begin anew. This attitude attests to the redemptive force of bringing not only material assistance but also psychological support.
The success of this project is also attributed to the leadership and dedication of Direc Charles Ratcliffe, whose vision led to the project, and the Baby Jaycee group, chaired by Chair Joey Cecilia, whose passion and cooperation made the initiative possible. Their dedication is a testament to JCI Manila’s mission to improve lives and create better communities through service and cooperation.
Facilities for night shelters were renovated and enlarged in order to include more people with safe and decent living conditions for street people.
As many as 150 mattresses were supplied to homeless persons, offering them comfort and safety while they resided there.
Empowering people through training and education was at the core of Shelter of Hope. 24 homeless persons attained their TESDA NC II Carpentry certificate, placing them in a position to acquire marketable skills for sustainable employment.
With its appreciation of the role of nutrition in the rebuilding of lives, JCI Manila introduced a continuous feeding program providing nutritious meals to residents. The program ensures that the beneficiaries are provided with proper nourishment as they move towards stability.
Since its establishment in 1810, Hospicio de San Jose has been a beacon of hope in Metro Manila. It is one of the oldest charitable organizations in the Philippines and has taken care of orphans, elderly people, and individuals in crisis situations. Its services consist of residential care, vocational rehabilitation, educational services, and health services—all with the goal of fostering integral development. With its alliance with JCI Manila, Hospicio de San Jose remains committed to helping vulnerable groups by giving them shelter, education, and livelihood.
Shelter of Hope aligns with global efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In March 2025, JCI Manila partnered with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to promote initiatives advancing economic growth, good governance, and sustainable development. These collaborations emphasize multi-stakeholder approaches to address poverty and inequality while empowering communities.
JCI Manila has demonstrated its leadership in fostering transformational change across various sectors through initiatives focused on climate action, youth engagement, and digitalization for sustainable development. These programs not only address pressing global challenges but also empower communities and individuals, showcasing JCI Manila’s commitment to creating impactful and sustainable solutions.
Shelter of Hope stands as a testament to what can be achieved through unity and service. JCI Manila has created a model for impactful community development by addressing immediate needs while empowering individuals with skills and opportunities for self-sufficiency. As JCI Manila continues its mission to elevate lives through initiatives like Shelter of Hope, it inspires others to join in building stronger communities where everyone has access to dignity, opportunity, and hope.