Catriona Gray helps raise P2.3 M for families in Smokey Mountain

MANILA, Philippines – Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray has helped raise P2.3 million to feed over 6,000 families in Smokey Mountain in Tondo who have become even more vulnerable during the coronavirus crisis.

The funds were raised through Young Focus Philippines, a non-profit organization that supports impoverished children in Tondo, Manila. Catriona has been working with Young Focus for years, and helped them launch their "No Work, No Rice" campaign.

In a video posted on her Instagram on May 26, Catriona shared clips of rice being distributed to families in the Smokey Mountain area. She also said that aside from rice, they've been distributing other supplies to the families every 10 days.

View this post on Instagram When faced with barriers, we can choose either to stay within our own walls or choose to reach out. And it's because of all YOUR generosity and KINDNESS that we've been able to reach out and help feed thousands of vulnerable Filipino families and also give much needed relief to fire victims in Tondo. @youngfocusph THANK YOU to all of you who have helped us to #PassTheKindness from your homes, to the homes of those in need. We accomplished this, together. Music: We're in this Together by @catriona_gray Film: @jololuarca @filmbyjololuarca Special thanks to: @cornerstone @victoria_belo @chinitaprincess @airxmnz @pooh_tik @jaysonsarmiento A post shared by Catriona Gray (@catriona_gray) on May 25, 2020 at 5:33am PDT

"This aid has become incredibly helpful in allowing families to stay safe in this time of no work or income, and Young Focus is working to continue to provide for these families through to the end of community quarantine," she said.

Catriona also talked about the fire that razed Barangay 105 in Tondo on April 18.

"Upon hearing the news, I felt a sense of hopelessness. With the restrictions and staying at home, what can I possibly do to help?" she said. She then thanked several people and brands who donated goods to help the victims of the fire, including celebrity doctor Vicky Belo, actress Kim Chiu, Creamsilk, Cynthia and Air Jimenez, comedian Pooh, and her management Cornerstone Entertainment.

"I know in times like these, many of us don't have much but even the smallest amount makes a difference and your generosity so far has made such an amazing difference and I hope you continue to help us to make even more of a difference in the lives of these Filipino families," she said.

She ended the video by thanking those who have given their support from all around the world. – Rappler.com

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