A Phenomenological Study of the Lived Experiences of the Beneficiaries of Adopt-a-Child Program in Calamba Bayside Integrated School

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Many students encounter financial constraints. It is usually the leading cause of absenteeism as well as dropping out of school. With regards to this, the government and non-government organizations, local and international, have created several programs which provide financial assistance to students who are experiencing financial struggles. For the Calamba Bayside Integrated School, the Adopt-a-Child Program aids its beneficiaries through a weekly allowance. This study aimed to know the lived-experiences of the recipients before and after being part of the program. The study focused on the effectiveness of the program in terms of aiding the financial struggles of the beneficiaries of the program.

METHODS

The study employed the phenomenological qualitative research design, by concurrently conducting in-depth interviews with an interview schedule with the beneficiaries of the program about their financial hindrances. The interview questions determined the socioeconomic status of the families of the beneficiaries, their experiences about daily financial struggles before being part of the program, the significant changes that occurred to their lives in terms of their daily allowance, daily attendance, and their perception about poverty.

RESULTS

The results verified that the Adopt-a-Child Program should continue in the following school years for it is very beneficial on the students. In addition to this, findings also revealed that the beneficiaries should make use of a guide for money allocation and money-saving tips.

DISCUSSIONS

Findings revealed that the beneficiaries of the Adopt-a-Child Program mostly came from lower socioeconomic classed families. The job description of the parents of the recipients commonly falls under the "Blue Collar" job description, which only provides a small and insufficient monthly income. The Adopt-a-Child Program served as a big help for its beneficiaries for its provided financial assistance helps them to provide their basic every day needs in school. The daily allowance of the beneficiaries increased through the help of the program, which results in more stable everyday finance. Furthermore, the regular attendance of the recipients has also improved since they do not need to skip classes due to financial constraints.