First, thanks to our advertisers, Supporting Members, and all who contribute toward the success of TMP. 
As you may or may not know, Editor Gwen's family has two residences on the island of Mindanao, in the Muslim part of the country (her family is Muslim). The people there voted a few months ago to put so-called 'sharia law' into effect. Some people are interpreting this change as an opportunity to repress, drive out, or kill some who are seen as not sufficiently religious.
Gwen's mother has a home in Cotabato, but that area is now too dangerous for Gwen to live in.
Gwen's mother also has a home in what is referred to as "the province" (i.e., the back country), in Lanao del Sur. This area seems safe at the moment, and Gwen is living here. This is a one-room home, in an area prone to flooding, near a river, and I believe 3 adults and a number of children live here. Fresh water comes from a neighbor's well. They just got electricity (before, they used solar). There is no sanitation. There is a small attached room which is used as a neighborhood store (a "sari sari" store, as they call it).
Above: Gwen's mother and niece at the sari-sari store.
I am pleased to announce that, as a Mother's Day project, TMP is funding the construction of sanitation facilities for Gwen's mother's home. (An outhouse.)
Thanks again to all of you who make our occasional special projects possible! Gwen promises photos when construction begins.
