Her name is Zoe.
She is a leader; a big sister.
She is a survivor.
She was a resident of DSWD Eastern Visayas’ Homes For Girls (HFG).
Zoe was sexually abused as a child. She was referred to HFG last 2024, to keep her in protective custody while she filed a case against the people who abused her.
Since her arrival, she has thrived in HFG. Initially reserved and quiet, Zoe participated in therapy sessions and group activities, allowing herself to heal from her traumatic experiences.
Although the healing process was difficult, she began to show progress. Several HFG staff noted that “she is very mature. She carries out all responsibilities you give her. She learns quickly, follows instructions well. When given tasks, she completes them. But, she doesn’t wait around for instructions; she shows initiative. [She’s] very participative, she displays leadership capabilities. She’s the big sister to her co-residents. ”
Aside from healing, HFG also taught Zoe practical life skills. She has earned Certificates of Completion from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) for training in manicure and pedicure, table skirting, bread and pastry baking, and housekeeping.
Today, Zoe is making a transition. From being a resident of HFG, she has now been cleared for discharge and is now to be turned over to her legal guardian. As she marks a new chapter in her life, she promises to continue her studies and seek a better life for her and her family.
“I want to thank the DSWD HFG staff. Thank you so much for helping me, especially during those times when I was hard to handle. Thank you for the love and care you gave me, for accompanying me to the hearings, for being there for me and watching out for me. When I broke down, you were always there to comfort me and remind me that things will be okay. When my life fell apart, you built me up. Thank you for helping me attain justice.”
“I’ll miss my sisters here in Home For Girls. I’ll miss our quarrels, the noise. I’ll miss the times when the houseparents would tell us to quiet down. Most of all, I’ll miss those nights when we say goodnight to each other before we sleep.”
As she leaves the HFG, Zoe looks back and carries with her all the memories, the lessons, and the friends she made during her stay. Now, with her past behind her, she looks forward to a better, brighter future.
