Ensuring Health and Happiness With Proper Handwashing
In September last year, WeLoveU members from Cambodia
visited Romlech Primary School in Pursat Province
and Thmorsor Primary School in Svay Rieng Province.
The visit aimed to inspect the hygiene facilities (toilets and washbasins)
that WeLoveU built about a decade ago
as part of an educational environment improvement initiative.
Facility Monitoring Results
🏫 Romlech Primary School
| Facility Condition | Functioning | Normal |
| Cracks/Leaks | None | |
| Malfunction | Faucet, Urinal | |
| Water Quality & PressureNormal | Normal | |
| Hygiene | Cleanliness | Requires Maintenance |
| Handwashing Rate | 60% |
🏫 Thmorsor Primary School
| Facility Condition | Functioning | Normal |
| Cracks/Leaks | None | |
| Malfunction | None | |
| Water Quality & Pressure | Normal | |
| Hygiene | Cleanliness | Good |
| Handwashing Rate | High |
The principals of Romlech and Thmorsor Primary Schools
expressed their gratitude to WeLoveU, noting that the construction
of the restrooms had greatly improved students’ hygiene and health,
thereby enhancing their learning efficiency.
Members discussed necessary follow-up actions with school officials.
Romlech Primary School urgently needed repairs for malfunctioning facilities,
while Thmorsor Primary School needed land reinforcement and elevation
to prevent water accumulation during the rainy season.
Facility Improvements
🏫 Romlech Primary School
(January 12ￚ19)
Installation of New Washbasins,
Faucet Repairs, Replacement of Urinals
🏫 Thmorsor Primary School
(January 22ￚ24)
Elevating the Toilet Area Through Land Reinforcement,
Replacement of the Water Pump Motor
The principals said that teachers, students, and local community
representatives were all delighted, and they presented letters of appreciation
to WeLoveU Honorary Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah,
in appreciation of her generous support in restoring the hygiene facilities.
Hygiene Education Through “Small Steps of Global Citizens”
in Celebration of International Day of Education
WeLoveU also conducted hygiene education sessions on January 22 and 29
under the WeLoveU School “Small Steps of Global Citizens” program
to promote a healthier school environment for students,
in celebration of International Day of Education (January 24).
During the session, students learned about the importance of hygiene
and were amazed to realize that proper hand hygiene could protect
not only their own health but also the health and lives of others.
After the session, many eagerly rushed to the washbasins
to wash their hands.
Chhoun Savoern, Romlech Primary School Teacher
“I appreciate WeLoveU for conducting handwashing education.
Thank you so much for encouraging hygiene education and showing us
how to keep our hands clean with detailed illustrations.”
Chhoun Savoern, Romlech Primary School Teacher
Sim Lika, Romlech Primary School Student
“I will wash my hands thoroughly, following the correct handwashing steps
that WeLoveU taught us.”
Sim Lika, Romlech Primary School Student
At Thmorsor Primary School, after the hygiene education session,
WeLoveU donated 400 sets of hygiene kits,
including hand sanitizers, handkerchief, and nail clippers.
Hort Bunly, Romlech Primary School Principal
“The Intl. WeLoveU Foundation built a restroom for us in 2016, and now they have installed new washbasins and replaced the urinals. Thank you so much. Now, our students can stay healthy by keeping their hands clean.”
Hort Bunly, Romlech Primary School Principal
WeLoveU will continue to support hygiene facilities and provide
hygiene education to ensure that children can enjoy a healthy school life.
A clean environment and proper hygiene management are essential
to safeguarding the health and happiness of children worldwide.
Mega Blood Drive: Celebrating 20 Years of Worldwide Blood Drive
The Worldwide Blood Drive, a global life-sharing campaign hosted by WeLoveU since 2004, celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. With the active participation of members and citizens, WeLoveU continues the noble act of sharing life through voluntary and non-remunerated blood donations across 51 countries and six continents.
In September, American members held a special blood drive
in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month and Sickle Cell Awareness Month.
This campaign aimed to support people with conditions like sickle cell disease1,
marking the 20th anniversary of WeLoveU’s life-saving blood drives.
In Atlanta, Georgia; Los Angeles, California; and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,
a total of 694 members and citizens successfully donated blood
and bought hope to patients facing a crisis due to the blood shortage.
1 A chronic anemia caused by a genetic abnormality in hemoglobin: It is a disease that leads to various omplications and is more commonly observed in individuals of Hispanic descent.
Mega Blood Drive Events on September 15
At the Los Angeles event–the 675th Worldwide Blood Drive–several
well-known figures, including members of the U.S. House of Representatives
and of the California Legislature Assembly, and the Mayors of Hawthorne
and Torrance, attended and presented a total of 15 plaques and certificates
of appreciation to WeLoveU and its Honorary Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah,
in recognition of 20 years of dedication to blood donation efforts, charity work,
and commitment to local communities.
Derek Fisher, former NBA player
“Congratulations to the WeLoveU Foundation for its wonderful achievements over the past 20 years. Blood donation and community service are not easy tasks. Thank you for your unwavering dedication around the world. The great impact activities often go unacknowledged as they deserve, but your actions will never be forgotten. I’ve participated in many charity events in the United States and worldwide, but I feel WeLoveU members are all one team. I hope to continue participating in WeLoveU’s volunteer work.”
Derek Fisher, former NBA player
Joanne Allen, CEO of the American Red Cross Los Angeles Region
“I heard the news that WeLoveU is hosting a mega blood donation campaign and decided to participate in the event. Collecting a significant amount of blood is truly important. We have been faced challenge for blood shortage recently. WeLoveU is doing such an outstanding job. Seeing so many citizens take an interest in and engage in humanitarian work like this gives me hope. Congratulations and gratitude to all of you for the achievements made today and for all your efforts to create a better world.”
Joanne Allen, CEO of the American Red Cross Los Angeles Region
Shalini Sasha Quattlebaum, Miss Nevada & Lawyer
“It has been 20 years that WeLoveU carried out the blood drive campaign.It was conducted not just in the United States but around the world.
Today, blood donation campaigns were held simultaneously in Los Angeles,
Philadelphia, and Atlanta. Blood donation is a great and amazing activity
that serves local communities. I’ve heard that 150,000 lives have been saved
through this campaign so far. I’m so happy to be a part of the WeLoveU Foundation.”
Shalini Sasha Quattlebaum, Miss Nevada & Lawyer
Jose Erdinita, DJ at Philadelphia's Rumba 106.1 Radio Station
“These people are doing a great job. All the happy faces seem to say,
‘We’re not just glad you’re here, but you’re really important to us.’ ”
Jose Erdinita, DJ at Philadelphia's Rumba 106.1 Radio Station
Jamie Lane from the American Red Cross
“Your energy and smiles are contagious.”
Jamie Lane from the American Red Cross
The event also featured a panel exhibition to share the importance
of blood donation and introduce WeLoveU’s various activities,
aiming to promote respectful recognition of life.
WeLoveU will continue hosting the Worldwide Blood Drive
to present love and hope to neighbors in need due to the blood shortages,
including patients with sickle cell disease.
We hope to spread the flower of life worldwide
through blood donation campaigns.
Relieve Stress With WeLoveU
On August 25, a special event took place at Kowloon City Plaza (KCP)
in Kowloon City, Hong Kong. WeLoveU, in collaboration
with the Home Affairs Department (HAD),
organized the “Hong Kong National Stress Relief Day” event
to support the well-being and development of the local community.
As a global financial hub and a logistics center facilitated by its ports
and airports, Hong Kong is known as one of the world’s busiest cities.
Consequently, many citizens endure intense workloads and stress.
To provide a moment of relaxation, WeLoveU prepared this event,
offering cultural performances, lectures, and various side activities
to ensure attendees had a comfortable and enjoyable time.
Chan Wah-yu, Justice of the Peace, who received Medal of Honour,
emphasized the significance of the event during the opening ceremony,
stating, “This is a very timely event. I hope activities like this will be
expanded to other areas, bringing many benefits to citizens.”
Following the opening ceremony, cultural performances and
lectures took place. The WeLoveU Orchestra, along with popular singers
such as Kaitlyn and Ida, delivered moving melodies and songs
that comforted the audience. A psychology expert also gave a lecture
emphasizing the importance of stress management and mental health,
explaining practical ways for citizens to overcome stress.
🎻 Cultural Event 🎵
👨🏫 Stress Management Lectures 👩🏫
The event featured various interactive booths that resonated
deeply with attendees. Approximately 800 citizens visited the venue,
engaging in activities that helped them relax, heal, and enjoy the day.
🤹♀️ Interactive Booth Activities 🤹♂️
Participants wished for similar events in the future, saying,
“I feel comfortable and happy in both body and mind.”
Wong Kin Lung Keith, Director of Richmond Fellowship of Hong Kong
“I give a big thanks to WeLoveU. This event is especially important at this time as it addresses the mental health of Hong Kong citizens. In particular, the focus on stress relief makes it both timely and meaningful. The cultural performances, songs by the singers, and side activities all came together to create an enjoyable experience. Thanks to this event, we had a stress-free and delightful day.”
Wong Kin Lung Keith, Director of Richmond Fellowship of Hong Kong
Andrew Layfield, former Professor at Division of Applied Science and Technology, City University of Hong Kong
“I’m so pleased and honored to have been invited to WeLoveU’s event. It made for a wonderful Sunday, and I look forward to attending future events hosted by WeLoveU. Thank you very much.”
Andrew Layfield, former Professor at Division of Applied Science and Technology, City University of Hong Kong
It is not easy to fill every day with happiness. However,
by taking care of our mental well-being, we can reduce stress
and increase the number of days filled with joy and hope.
WeLoveU will nurture happiness in the hearts of all global neighbors
through continuous mindfulness programs.
Promoting Mental Well-Being in the Calming Room
During adolescence, many factors such as academic stress, peer relationships,
and family conflicts can lead to emotional difficulties.
In the United States, students face various stressors such as engaging
in economic activities to earn allowance, excessive school work, and more.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC] reported in a 2021 survey
that 44% of high school students in the United States experience persistent
feelings of depression. Failure to properly care for the mental health of adolescents
can hinder their physical and emotional growth and may lead to various social issues.
WeLoveU has created a “Calming Room (Emotional Stability Classroom)”
at University High School in Newark, New Jersey, to help students manage
their physical and mental well-being. The Calming Room is a special classroom
designed to help students enhance academic focus and cultivate
proper emotional health through emotion regulation and stress relief.
Calming Room Effect
The Calming Room, remodeled from an existing classroom, was designed
with various elements to aid stress relief and emotion regulation.
October 8, 2023 – December 16, 2023
WeLoveU members dedicated more than 420 hours
over the 10-week course to create the Calming Room.
They adorned the space with soothing blue hues, warm lighting,
and potted plants, while providing comfortable seating and exercise equipment.
They’ve also stocked beverages and headphones so that students can relax at any time.
Calming Room for Emotional Stability
On February 29, a grand opening ceremony for the Calming Room
was held at University High School. Attendees included the principal, teachers,
WeLoveU members, representatives from the design company HDR, and officials
from the nonprofit organization Vivacity Tech, who sponsored the project.
During the opening ceremony speech, Roger Leon, Newark Board of Education Superintendent, emphasized the importance of emotional stability for both students and teachers.
Flournoy-Hamilton, Principal of University High School
“The importance of social and emotional care for students has become even greater after COVID-19. We’ve longed for a comfortable and stable space in our school. I would like to express my gratitude to everyone who has contributed to making this possible.”
Flournoy-Hamilton, Principal of University High School
Lawren Monroe, Social Worker at University High School
“I’m really looking forward to seeing how this new initiative will impact our students. The truth is, many students carry various social and emotional issues, and it’s our duty to support them. The Calming Room will provide students with a great opportunity to take care of their mental health and focus on emotional stability.”
Lawren Monroe, Social Worker at University High School
On this day, WeLoveU commemorated the opening of the Calming Room
by donating 40 laptops to the school. Members hoped that students
would grow emotionally healthy through the use of the Calming Room.
Delivering Warm Hope to Neighbors Through Blood Donation
On February 18 and February 26, the 666th and 667th Worldwide Blood Drives
were held in Korea and the United States, respectively. In Ulsan,
128 members and local citizens gathered at Ulsan Dongchun Gymnasium,
while 33 members and citizens in Baltimore, MD, participated
at the Delaware Theatre Company to donate blood and share the gift of life.
Choi In-gyu, Director of Ulsan Blood Center
“The WeLoveU blood drive, which began in 2004, has now reached its 20th year. Thanks to WeLoveU’s consistent efforts, public awareness of the importance of blood donation has significantly improved. We are especially grateful for the support of WeLoveU members during winter, a season when blood supplies are critically low. Your kindness will surely be felt by our neighbors. We are always cheering for you, Intl. WeLoveU Foundation!”
Choi In-gyu, Director of Ulsan Blood Center
Officials from the Ulsan Blood Center, Delaware State Senators Darius J.
Brown and Sarah McBride, and representatives from the American Red Cross
attended these events to show their support for WeLoveU’s ongoing blood drives.
Please share love by donating blood. Your donation brings warm hope
and can save the lives of neighbors in need.
Let's Share Life Through Blood Drive
At C3 Mall (City Commercial Center) in Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur Province, the Philippines, the chant of “We Love U” resonated by WeLoveU members and citizens who gathered for the blood drive.
WeLoveU launched a blood drive, upon hearing the unfortunate news of hospitals facing significant difficulties in treating patients due to blood shortages. In efforts to raise awareness of blood donation and promote a culture of responsible blood donation, panel exhibitions were also conducted.
Many members participated in the blood donation campaign with their families and neighbors. Children who followed their parents learned the value and importance of blood donation. The Philippine Red Cross officials from the Pagadian Municipality, and medical staff from Zamboanga del Sur Provincial Hospital also joined in supporting and cheering for the WeLoveU’s blood drive.
Among 125 participants from citizens and WeLoveU members, 47 individuals successfully donated blood, sharing the precious gift of life.
The Philippine Red Cross’s Pagadian City Chapter of Zamboanga del Sur honored WeLoveU Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah with a certificate of commendation, recognizing her dedication and efforts in promoting blood drive.
More Stories
On October 29, WeLoveU conducted its 658th Blood Drive at C3 Mall in Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur Province, the Philippines, in cooperation with Pagadian Municipality and the Philippine Red Cross’s Pagadian City Chapter of Zamboanga del Sur.
Worldwide Blood Drive to Celebrate World Blood Donor Day
June 14 is World Blood Donor Day. Many countries are carrying out various activities
to encourage more people to participate in voluntary blood donation.
They recognize the contribution of blood donors with awards
and also hold blood donation campaigns.
Why is the world putting so much effort into donating blood?
This is because blood donation is the way to share precious life.
needs blood transfusion every 2 seconds.
people
need to donate blood
every day.
Even with excellent doctors and surgical equipment, if there is not enough blood,
it is impossible to save a life. Blood cannot be replaced by any other substance.
Therefore, donating blood is the most valuable act of love and sharing life with others.
Blood Donation Filled With Joy and Happiness
(577–656th)
In celebration of World Blood Donor Day, WeLoveU members who practice Mother’s love
around the world participated in the blood drive to solve the blood supply shortages
in hospitals, and deliver hope to patients. From June 14 to September 4,
over 14,000 people from 27 countries participated in the blood drives and over
5,800 people successfully donated blood, reviving the embers of many dying lives.
Blood Donation Without Expecting Anything in Return
Local governments and organizations who participated in the blood drive
along with WeLoveU members expressed their gratitude to the members
who voluntarily donated blood for neighbors in need.
Lim Heng, Deputy Director of the Hospital, Siem Reap Provincial Referral Hospital, Cambodia
“I’m very happy and pleased with WeLoveU’s blood drive. Thank you for your kind-hearted help for the health of Cambodian people and the treatment of patients. This grace cannot be expressed with words. The name WeLoveU immediately conveys the intention to provide help to hospitals and patients. We will deliver the precious and good grace of the members to patients who need blood.”
Lim Heng, Deputy Director of the Hospital, Siem Reap Provincial Referral Hospital, Cambodia
Kwak Yun-hui, Council Member of Guro-gu, Seoul, Korea
“Thank you very much for inviting me to the Blood Drive. I also had five heart surgeries. I received blood transfusion each time. I cried and laughed together with the blood donors. I will do my best to support the blood drive until the end.
Kwak Yun-hui, Council Member of Guro-gu, Seoul, Korea
Aida Carriaga, Blood Program Coordinator of the Department of Health, Quezon City, the Philippines
“As I manage blood at City Hall, I know how much impact donating blood has on the community. Today’s event will be of great help to the community. It was my first time attending and sponsoring a WeLoveU event. I was very surprised by the systematic and organized activities of the members. You are the world’s unknown heroes.”
Aida Carriaga, Blood Program Coordinator of the Department of Health, Quezon City, the Philippines
Sharing Blood Doubles the Joy!
Members who participated in the Blood Drive expressed their happiness
for being able to share their life with their neighbors.
After donating blood last time, my body felt lighter and food tasted better, so I came to donate blood again. This is the third time this year.
Kim Hyeong-il (Korea)
Being able to save a life through voluntary blood donation gives me a special happiness. The fact that we can share blood means we are healthy.
Perrie May Abulencia Berroya (Philippines)
I’ve realized how important it is to practice love for neighbors by donating blood. I hope that many people will participate in the WeLoveU blood donation campaign.
Wesley Gomes (Brazil)
The fact that one person’s blood can save the lives of many people makes my heart warmer than the hot weather. I hope that blood will be delivered to those who are sick and put to good use in saving lives.
Min Suk-kyung (Korea)
WeLoveU will continue to spread the Blood Drive
to protect and care for the lives of our neighbors around the world.
Let’s practice love for neighbors through the WeLoveU Blood Drive!
Creating a Safe and Pleasant Medical Environment
In Mzimba situated in the North Region of Malawi,
there are over 20 small-scale district hospitals facing significant challenges
in patient care due to insufficient government support. These hospitals
grapple with shortages of medical equipment and medications, while worn-out
medical facilities cannot be replaced. Particularly concerning is the issue
of contaminated and damaged mattress covers, which pose a significant risk.
The scarcity of medical mattress covers has reached a critical level, to the extent
that despite the presence of beds, patients cannot be accommodated
due to the risk of cross-infection among them.
On August 27, WeLoveU organized a delivery ceremony at the Mzuzu Urban Health Centre
to donate 62 medical mattress covers to the Mzimba North District Health Office.
An official from the Health Office expressed gratitude for WeLoveU’s support,
noting that the covers would be sent to regional national hospitals for effective use.
Dr. Naomi Mviha Mulwafu, Director of Health and Social Services at the Mzimba North District Health Office
“I am immensely grateful for the support from WeLoveU. We were faced with the challenge of having to discard torn mattress covers and procure new mattresses due to the unavailability of medical covers. Despite assurances from multiple organizations, those promises remained unfulfilled. The mattress covers supplied by WeLoveU will be distributed to 23 national hospitals, ensuring that we now have clean mattresses that do not pose infection risks to our patients.”
Dr. Naomi Mviha Mulwafu, Director of Health and Social Services at the Mzimba North District Health Office
Health office officials expressed profound gratitude for WeLoveU’s support,
expressing hopes for future cooperation.
There are still countless people worldwide waiting for help.
WeLoveU remains committed to extending a helping hand to ensure
that everyone has access to a safe and comfortable medical environment.
Working Together for a Safe and Healthy Life
On August 10, around 60 members from WeLoveU gathered at the Hong Kong
Jockey Club [HKJC] Drug InfoCentre in the Queensway Government Offices.
The gathering marked the launch of the ‘Crime Prevention and Anti-Drug Campaign,’
conducted in partnership with the Narcotics Division Anti-Drug Volunteer Group of Hong Kong. The initiative seeks to foster a safer and healthier community for local residents.
The HKJC Drug InfoCentre, a government-operated educational facility,
is dedicated to raising public awareness about the dangers of drug use
and preventing substance abuse through active citizen participation.
At three in the afternoon, following an educational session on drug-related laws
and regulations at the centre, WeLoveU members began their full-scale campaign.
They handed out eco-bags filled with pamphlets outlining the dangers of drug use
and encouraged citizens to join the effort to prevent crime and combat drug abuse.
On this day, the Narcotics Division Anti-Drug Volunteer Group honored WeLoveU
with a certificate of appreciation in recognition of its invaluable cooperation
in the recent anti-drug campaign.
“Among the participants, there are middle and college students,
as well as both men and women.
I can feel a great sense of positive energy from everyone.
Let us come together and tackle drug abuse as a team.
It is crucial that we address this issue.”
Anti-Drug Volunteer Group Chairwoman Zoe TANG
“WeLoveU members really show strong unity and energy.
I look forward to more chances to work together in the future.”
Anti-Drug Volunteer Group Vice-Chairman Raymond Wong
As more young people are being exposed to drugs and substances at an earlier age,
the Hong Kong government is stepping up its efforts to educate the public
about these risks. WeLoveU will join this effort and cooperate with the government
to help create a safer and healthier community.
Please stay tuned for the upcoming activities
from the Hong Kong WeLoveU members!