An unexpected calling: Becoming an SOS mother in the Philippines
Rochelle is a caregiver at SOS Children’s Villages Philippines in Manila, where she cares for children who are not biologically hers but whom she loves as her own. Having faced many challenges in her younger years, she has shown resilience and personal growth. Motherhood came serendipitously, and she fully embraced it.
An unexpected calling
Two years ago, Rochelle took a leap of faith and joined SOS Children’s Villages as a staff member. Initially stepping in as an assistant caregiver, she poured her heart into the role, proving her dedication and love for children. Her quick promotion to SOS mother was a testament to the nurturing spirit she embodied, shaped by her own struggles and sacrifices.
Once a promising student, Rochelle had dreams of shaping young minds in a classroom. But a pregnancy changed her path.
“In those early years, I grappled with the weight of responsibility. I felt my youth had slipped away. Yet, my son was my greatest reason to persevere as a new mother and as a provider,” she said.
She opened a small home-based convenience store, known locally as a sari-sari shop, selling everyday essentials to provide for her son and parents. But deep down, she knew she was meant for more.
It was through a distant relative that she first heard of SOS Children’s Villages. She learned of the organization’s work and how it provided protection and care to children.
“I never imagined being part of this family. When the opportunity came, I saw it as a means to better provide for my son. While I realized that motherhood was a vocation, it brought purpose, joy, and healing to my young soul,” Rochelle shared.
Creating a home of love and learning
Today, as the SOS mother of six children, Mommy Rochelle, as her children lovingly call her, has created a home filled with love, discipline, and understanding. She helps them with homework, teaches them to read, and celebrates their milestones.
Moreover, she has a knack for turning simple moments into valuable life lessons, like playing board games every weekend to teach logic and strategy, rewarding good performance in school to encourage diligence, and, most importantly, allowing her children to express their emotions freely.
One of Rochelle’s most unique approaches is her safe-space room, where her children can release their frustrations, cry when they need to, and process their emotions without fear.
“I don’t silence their pain. I allow them to shout inside that safe room without, of course, hurting themselves. As their mother, I help them understand their emotions because I know how it feels to bear the pain alone at a young age,” she said, teary-eyed. “I want my sons and daughters to see me not just as their caregiver but as their mother,” she added.
A promise that lasts a lifetime
“I am forever my children’s mother. I will continue to learn and grow so that my children’s lives will be successful,” she declared, a promise she holds close to her heart every day.”
Indeed, a mother’s unconditional love is her legacy. And because of Mommy Rochelle, six more children now believe in the power of a mother’s love.
Why your support matters
Behind Rochelle’s strength and dedication are supporters who believe in SOS Children’s Villages’ mission: to provide children and young people without parental care a safe and nurturing environment, opportunities, and the trusting relationships they need to be their strongest selves.
Your contribution helps SOS mothers like Rochelle provide not just food and shelter but genuine, transformative care.