Kapamilya actress Jodi Sta. Maria has taken on a new role as a Grief Support Practitioner, offering compassion and guidance to parents and families who have lost their children.
On her social media page, Jodi shared how she and nonprofit organization Kythe Foundation Inc. created a safe and supportive space for grieving families.
“A grieving person will laugh again, will find joy again, will dream again... but it doesn’t mean they have moved on. You move forward with the beautiful memories of your loved one,” Jody wrote.
She went on: “Today, we created a space for parents and families whose children have gone ahead to be with the Lord… a space to hold their pain, honor their stories, and remind them they are not alone. We ended the program with Ear Acudetox, to help ease the weight they carry, even just for a moment.”
Jodi revealed that it was her first time to facilitate such an event, making the experience even more special.
“It was my first time to facilitate this as a Grief Support Practitioner, and I’m grateful for my friends at NADA Philippines, Kythe staff and volunteers who offered their hands and hearts to support these families,” she expressed.
Understanding the depth of their pain, Jodi expressed her hope for their gradual healing.
“Healing unfolds gently and it takes time, but the Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Today and everyday we hold on to that promise. ✨🙏🏼✨,” she expressed.
Jodi has long been vocal about supporting various causes and using her platform to champion values close to her heart. She currently serves as Kythe Foundation’s Child Life Ambassador.
“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you, Ms. Jodi, for walking alongside these families, offering your compassion, care, and a safe space to grieve, remember, and find moments of peace. ❤️🙏🏻,” the foundation commented on Jodi’s post.
Actress Iza Calzado also praised Jodi, writing: “You are so amazing, my love! Thank you for doing God’s work literally through your hands. Love and healing for all.🙏🏽❤️✨.”
Fans and netizens likewise expressed admiration in the comment section.
“So proud of you, Ate Jods. The way you handle things with so much grace and strength… grabe, nakaka-inspire ka. You don’t just grow quietly, you shine through everything you go through. I hope you know how much I admire you!!🥹🫶,” a fan said.
Another one expressed, “I'm so proud of you, ate jodi! I really admire you po kasi hindi mo lang pinapakita o inaadvocacy kundi mayroon karin pong actions.”
“Ate Jods, your heart is such a safe place for others. Your compassion is a blessing to so many. Always proud of you! 🥹🤍.”
READ: Jodi Sta. Maria on her TEDx Talk: ‘Still high from sharing my heart’
Earlier this year, Jodi shared her experience as a certified TEDx speaker, after being invited to speak at TEDxSISC Youth, the first TEDx event held at Southville International School and Colleges.
Her talk emphasized the healing power of human connection, noting that “we aren’t meant to go through life alone.”
This year, she was also named the new celebrity ambassador of the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), after years of actively supporting animal welfare initiatives