In the rural, mountainous region of Railaco in Timor-Leste, families rely heavily on subsistence farming to survive. Crops like cassava, sweet potatoes, vegetables and coffee are staples, but malnutrition has long been a hidden crisis. Here, Mana Cristina Wakini, a mother of seven, has devoted her life to serving children and communities in need through the Jesuits’ Feeding Program.
Reflecting on her journey, she shares, “When I first arrived in Timor-Leste from Indonesia, I had no job, no income, and no certainty about the future. But through this work, I was able to send my children to school, build a home, and meet so many people who supported me along the way.”
Cristina’s story of service began in 2004 when Lani, a Philippine nurse working with the Jesuits in Railaco Parish, noticed widespread malnutrition among children. Determined to help, Lani, along with the Jesuits, planned a feeding program and sought someone to lead it. After an interview, Lani recognized Cristina’s dedication and enlisted her help in organizing logistics and designing nutritious menus. By October 2005, Cristina officially became part of the program and took on the role of Project Manager.
Around the same time, a task force from St. Canice’s Parish traveled to Railaco to explore ways to assist Jesuits in their mission. Recognizing the urgency of the malnutrition crisis, St. Canice’s committed to fund the program. Twenty years later, St. Canice’s Parish continues supporting the program, ensuring its sustainability and growth. Their ongoing support has been instrumental in expanding the program’s reach and impact. Today, Jesuit Mission Australia has also joined hands to support this vital initiative.
The feeding program was transformative from the start. Three times a week, it provided meals rich in protein and essential nutrients to children aged 9 months to 14 years—or until they graduate from primary school—across three remote locations in Railaco and Aileu. Today, it serves approximately 200 children daily.
Cristina recalls the stark realities she encountered: “Many children ate only cassava or sweet potatoes, and some didn’t even know the taste of eggs. It broke my heart to see them grow slowly, their health affected by such limited diets.” Moved by this reality, she committed herself to ensuring every child could access at least one nutritious meal each day.
Now, the program operates as a tightly-knit team. Cristina and her colleague Leonora prepare and distribute the food, with support from a driver who ensures the meals reach even the most remote areas. Father Bong, a Jesuit, oversees the program, providing spiritual and logistical guidance.
Beyond addressing physical hunger, Cristina and the Jesuit community work to nurture the children’s spiritual and emotional well-being. Together, they have incorporated teachings, prayers, and reflections into the program. Cristina describes the profound personal growth she has experienced through this collaboration: “The Jesuits taught me to reflect, to pray, and to find strength in faith during hard times. When I had moments of doubt or felt overwhelmed, they were there to guide me.”
For Cristina, this effort is about more than food. “It’s not just about the meals,” she explains. “It’s about showing these children that they matter, that someone cares about their health and future. I hope that with the h8elp of donors and our team, these children can grow strong, overcome malnutrition, and live healthier lives.”
Cristina’s commitment exemplifies how compassion, community, and faith can transform lives—even in the face of the greatest challenges. [Editor: Lucrecia] [Source: Cristina]