25/09/2026
Twenty years ago, a simple program called βGive a Goatβ came to Arapal, not knowing that for our family, it would become part of our story, our livelihood, and eventually, part of the reason my sister and I were able to pursue our dreams.
Our family was blessed to be among the first recipients of the Give a Goat Program in Arapal. At that time, we probably didn't fully understand how meaningful those goats would become in our lives. We simply knew that we had something we could take care of, raise, and eventually turn into a source of income for our family.
I still remember carrying the goats along the road when they were too heavy for us. There were moments when I would literally cry because I couldn't carry them anymore.
And yesβ¦ there were times when our goats would somehow become the reason for a little traffic jam on the road! π
Looking back now, those moments are some of my favorite memories.
And now, twenty years later, when I look back at those old photos, I can't help but feel emotional.
The little girl carrying goats on the road is now serving in the government.
And the sister who stood beside me in those early days is also serving and making her own contribution today.
This is why livelihood programs matter.
Sometimes, what looks like a simple goat given to a family is actually an opportunity, a source of income, a child's education, and eventually, a family's future.
Thank you, Kuya Sal Cariaga .
Thank you for believing that something as simple as a goat could create a meaningful difference in a family's life.
Thank you to the Give a Goat Program for being part of our story.
And thank you to my parents for raising those goats, working hard, and making sure that whatever we had was used to help our family move forward.
And perhaps that's the most beautiful thing about the Give a Goat story:
One goat can become a livelihood.
A livelihood can support an education.
An education can open doors.
And one opportunity can change a family's story.π