Helping people in need geared towards sustainability has always been the purpose of MINSAC (Mother Ignacia National Social Apostolate Center). The organization has developed programs that would enhance peoples’ worth and dignity. One of these programs that was recently developed is the Payatas Livelihood Program. This program is in partnership with Charity First Foundation, Inc. which aims to augment the income of some families in Payatas B and to hone their skills and potentials.

There are two (2) operating projects in the area: the Basahan Project and the Sewing Project. Moreover, to make these projects sustainable, a strategy called sub-contracting was used. Sub- contracting is made when a company (called contractor) places an order of other companies (called subcontractor) for the production of parts, and components to be incorporated into a product to be sold by the contractor. Hence, with this strategy, the sewers and Basahan workers do the labor and they are being paid for it. In a few months of operation, these projects already created an impact on the families who are being involved in the operation.

According to them, the amount that they are earning from the projects somehow helps them in sustaining the families’ basic needs. Also because of it their skills in sewing and making different rugs are humanizing. They are not just earning but they are also learning. Furthermore, with the help and continuous support of the organization’s partner, Charity First Foundation, Inc., job orders for the sewers and pieces of cloth (retaso) for the basahan workers are constantly delivered to the center.

The partnership of MINSAC and Charity First Foundation, Inc., is hoping and reaching out to help more families in Payatas B to have sustainable livelihood program, to uplift their living and to facilitate in alleviating poverty in the community.