Converge ICT lends support to “My Dream in a Shoebox”Converge ICT lends support to “My Dream in a Shoebox”

Converge ICT Solutions, Inc. recently lent its support to the “My Dream in a Shoebox” Gift-Giving Day activity for the benefit of the Payatas Orione Foundation. The event was held at the Mother of Divine Providence church grounds located in Payatas, Quezon City.

“My Dream in a Shoebox” is a long-running project that collects and distributes shoeboxes filled with school supplies to poor and underprivileged Filipino children around the country. It is spearheaded by TeamAsia together with the IT & Business Process Association of the Philippines, Inc. (IBPAP).

It was the first time that Converge ICT participated in such an inspiring event in Metro Manila that was held in one of the most poverty-stricken areas in the metropolis. According to Ms. Mari-Au Acuesta, HR Director of Converge ICT, most of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) events were focused in Pampanga where Converge ICT traces its roots.

Converge ICT served as food sponsor for the more than 700 people, composed mostly of kids, their parents and volunteers. They also put up a photo booth and a face-painting area at the venue, the first time these were included in the gift-giving event. The photo booth and face painting truly delighted not just the kids but also the kids-at- heart, who all patiently waited for their turn. The long lines were a testament to the fun-filled activities’ success.

Even Converge ICT personnel, particularly their graphics design team, did the face-painting themselves long after the professional face painters have left. This further elicited laughter among the kids who nonetheless remained wide-eyed with excitement.

“We were delighted to see the response of kids. They were all awed by the Photo Booth setup and of course, the face-painting. They marvelled at the kiddie-friendly images drawn on either hands or face, and clearly they had fun, even if the Converge ICT personnel took over the face-painting chores. It was an inspiring sight,” Acuesta said.

Mr. Jesus Romero, COO of Converge ICT, bared that this initial CSR venture of Converge ICT will definitely see a repeat next year, and hinted that perhaps will even be bigger in scope.

For her part, Monette Iturralde-Hamlin, President of Team Asia and the project’s main proponent, said she can’t believe that “My Dream in a Shoebox,” which started through a dream, is in its 9 th year already.

“We thank our many sponsors who supported the project throughout the years and still continue to support us until today, including other new sponsors.”

Hamlin was delighted that Converge ICT Solutions, Inc. joined this year’s edition of “My Dream in a Shoebox.” She thanked Converge ICT for participating as a Platinum sponsor and helped feed the throng of kids who came in droves.

Converge ICT, Inc. started its business in 1992 and was already granted a congressional franchise. The company has many Tier 1 international peering partners to ensure fast and reliable connectivity. It also partnered with top domestic peering partners currently has the 3 rd largest Internet backbone in the country to help further improve the Internet experience of Filipinos.