Yesterday, he signed the Feed Saipan Thursday Proclamation to “remember not only the thousands of our Saipan residents, but also the million of people throughout the world who are experiencing hunger and most especially who are homeless, and no one seemed to care for their needs.”
The proclamation designates Nov. 27 as Feed Saipan Thursday which aims at encouraging the business community and individuals to donate foods and clothing for the less fortunate members of the community.
The mayor’s office will receive all donations and turn them over to Karidat.
“On Thanksgiving Day, I ask every family to fast for two meals, and monies to spend for one meal can be donated to Karidat Social Services to help the homeless and the hungry. As the Lord taught us in the scripture, in order for one to be with the kingdom, one has to give up all his personal belongings to the poor and then follow Him.”
Karidat Executive Director Angie V. Deleon Guerrero is expecting more donations despite the economic slump because people “tend to be generous because they are touched by the hardship of others.”
At least 5,000 individuals and families will benefit from the mayor’s program, Deleon Guerrero said, as she encouraged donors to continue helping those in need.
“Many people are coming to our office for food assistance,” she told Variety.
The proclamation signing was also attended by Saipan Southern High School students Min Sol Kim, student council treasurer; Raissa Belle A. Ferrer, student council vice president; and Lawrence Echon, student council member.
Kim said they are also encouraging their fellow students and other community members to support Feed Saipan Thursday.
In his proclamation, Tudela said “selfless sacrifice breeds a genuine spirit of Thanksgiving, both affirming and resorting fundamental values of caring and compassion for the poor in our society.”
