Donor Letter: Babsie’s Story
We received this kind letter from a donor named Babsie who shared her story about growing up with Filipina Domestic workers and how they profoundly impacted her life. We’ve transcribed the letter to share with you below. You can also view the original letter here. Bethune House relies on generous donors like Babsie to continue supporting migrant women in need. If you would like to become a partner in this mission, please visit our donation page for more information.
April 8, 2020
To the women of Bethune House,
I know it's hard to keep a brave face during these times, where it seems harder than ever to have faith, when the whole world is falling apart. I hope this letter finds you all in good health.
My helpers are the world to me. They are the women (and man) who brought me up, who taught me everything from how to tie my laces, to how to cook adobo and sisig, to speak Tagalog through watching Filipino Hour on TV. They brought me to school during the week and on the weekend, to volleyball tournaments. I went with them to Worldwide House to buy calamansi and Chippy, and they took me to the Convention Centre to line up and meet my childhood heroes -Judy Ann Santos and Piolo Pascual. They gave me the nickname Babsie. I may not be Filipino by blood, but they made me Filipino by culture, and I wear that proudly as a badge of honour.
I am forever grateful for them for being a part of my life, for shaping my upbringing and I hope that I can contribute to their lives and one day, to have them reunited with their families, settled and happy, free from financial worry and stress.
I have the same hopes for you. I want to thank you for all the work you have done for the people of Hong Kong, from the bottom of my heart. Hong Kong can be an unfriendly place. When I go to the Philippines, I'm always amazed at how kind, generous and genuine people are. Being an Indian person in Hong Kong, I have experienced racism that many of you may be familiar with. But I can always find comfort in my brown-skinned sisters and brothers, who smile back at me and continue to amaze me. I cannot imagine the strength and determination it takes to do what you have done and continue to do, outside of your home country. You are the bravest people I know.
Things are hard now, things seem impossible now, but I would like to share with you a quote that helps me when times are tough: it's always darkest before the dawn. You are not alone, and you will always have people campaigning for the betterment of your lives in Hong Kong - I will make sure of this.
I have made a donation to Bethune House which I hope will help provide you with the necessary care and support you need, and will continue to support this mission.
Maraming salamat po, for all that you do and all who you are.
Your friend,
Babsie
