Bacolod Social Services Urge Public to Donate Hygiene Kits and Essentials for Fire Victims

The Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD) in Bacolod City has called on the public to contribute additional donations of hygiene kits and essential daily items for residents displaced by a recent fire in Barangay 27. In a recent press briefing, DSSD head Dr. Richelle Verdeprado-Mangga highlighted that immediate assistance should now focus on hygiene products, plates, forks, children’s diapers, undergarments, eco-bags, and large storage boxes to better support the fire survivors.

Due to an overwhelming influx of used clothing donations, the department has temporarily suspended acceptance of these items to manage their current surplus. Dr. Verdeprado-Mangga expressed gratitude for the generous contributions but emphasized the limited space at the temporary evacuation center at Apolinario Mabini Elementary School, where survivors are currently sheltered.

"The affected families are facing difficult circumstances that require our compassion and understanding," she stated. The department initially allowed used clothing donations despite standard policies typically discouraging them, aiming to meet survivors’ immediate needs. However, recent heavy rains caused many donated clothes to become soaked as survivors prioritized salvaging important documents and other goods.

Images circulating online have shown large piles of clothing at the evacuation site, prompting the call for urgent support with other essential items instead. Meanwhile, relief operations continue with various city government offices and volunteers assisting in sorting donations and providing psychosocial support activities for affected children.

Key partners involved include the Public Affairs and Assistance Division of DSSD, Bacolod Environment and Natural Resources Office, City Legal Office, City Cooperative and Livelihood Development Office, the City Administrator’s Office, and numerous volunteer groups, working collectively to address the evolving needs of the fire victims.