By Crisandra Magno, Project Officer – Roots to Shoots
For many families across Sitio Kaging in Barangay Sto. Niño and Sitio Burog in Barangay San Vicente in Bamban, Tarlac, as well as Sitio Haduan in Barangay Calumpang, Mabalacat City, Pampanga, hope is beginning to take a more tangible form.
Through the Roots to Shoots (RTS) initiative, a total of 100 caregivers and farmers recently received starter goats as part of the program’s livelihood assistance component. More than simply providing livestock, the initiative aims to help families build more sustainable sources of income, strengthen food security, and create better opportunities for the future.
Before receiving the assistance, many beneficiaries relied primarily on seasonal farming and irregular small-scale work to support their households. With limited and unpredictable income, meeting daily needs, including food and school expenses, often became a challenge.
The introduction of small-scale goat raising offers families a practical and sustainable livelihood opportunity that complements their existing agricultural knowledge and resources. Through breeding and eventual sales, the goats are expected to gradually provide additional household income and long-term financial support.
To help ensure the sustainability of the initiative, beneficiaries first participated in an orientation where they were guided in identifying livelihood options suited to their skills, interests, and available resources. Those who selected goat raising also underwent basic training on goat care and management conducted in partnership with the local government unit and the Department of Agriculture.
The training equipped participants with essential knowledge on proper feeding, health management, and livestock care, helping build both confidence and preparedness as they begin their livelihood journey.
For many families, the support represents more than an economic opportunity. It symbolizes the fulfillment of a long-awaited dream.
One beneficiary from Sitio Burog shared, “Maraming salamat at natupad na ang aming pangarap na kambing.”
Even modest additional income from livestock raising can make a meaningful difference for families by helping improve food availability at home, support children’s education, and reduce financial uncertainty over time.
The initiative was implemented in close coordination with barangay officials and community leaders, whose active involvement in organizing and validating beneficiaries helped ensure a smooth, transparent, and community-centered rollout of assistance.
To further strengthen the long-term impact of the program, follow-up monitoring visits and continuous technical guidance are planned to support beneficiaries as they grow and sustain their livelihood.
Made possible through the support of Bloomberry Cultural Foundation, Inc. and Thaison Builder & Developer Inc., the RTS initiative reflects a shared commitment to empowering communities through sustainable and dignified opportunities.
With every goat entrusted to a family, a new beginning takes root, one built on resilience, strengthened through knowledge, and carried forward with hope.
