In recognition of our most valued and youngest member of the society, SM City Davao through their Program on Youth and Children’s Welfare celebrated the National Children’s Month last October with various “child-friendly” campaigns, simultaneously, with 40 SM malls nationwide.
“With more than three million customers going to our malls daily, approximately 1.4 million of them being children, we have committed to help future generations reach their full potential by initiating programs that promote an environment of learning, activities which instill home-grown values and embrace education, and events which foster talent as well as children’s rights” said Jay Madulara, SM Davao brand manager. “SM is now beyond shopping, entertainment, and leisure. It is now about taking affirmative action in our social responsibilities. It is about taking initiatives, in being instrumental, in caring for children, the best way we can” he added.
And truly, it will take more than just a “City” to achieve that goal. So together with parents, tenant-partners, various government institutions and NGOs, SM City Davao prepared a month long calendar of kid’s activities which include Global Handwashing Day (Oct.15), wherein thousands of children, simultaneously washed their hands properly, while learning about the importance of basic hygiene and health care.
They also invited thousands of students to watch environmental films (for free) and participate in a Green Film Festival (every 3rd Monday and Tuesday of the month), as they encourage children to be responsible stewards of the environment.
The United Nations Parade (U.N. Day Oct.24) gathered thousands of kids in different shapes and sizes, representing 192 U.N. member countries, as they went around the mall in friendly competition, for the best national costume.
As part of the culminating activity last October 26-27, mall management and staff, together with SM Foundation and various partners, accommodated 7,000 children across all SM Malls for a day of fun and learning. But prior to the activity, the staff were already trained to handle “special” children, while facilities have been enhanced to ensure that the mall is safe and comfortable enough to accommodate tiny hands and feet, wherever they go.
For parties who wish to extend assistance to less privileged children, every purchase of one (1) SM Supermalls bottled water at the Foodcourt or any SM food outlet will allow you to support two (2) children in Capiz, through UNICEF and SM Cares program by SM Prime Holdings.
