Church Supports Elsie Gaches Village with Donation of Essential Equipment and Supplies

In a spirit of compassion and service, Elder Patrick Kearon of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints led a donation turnover ceremony at Elsie Gaches Village in Muntinlupa City on May 30, 2025. Responding to the expressed needs of the facility, the Church provided essential equipment and supplies to support the care and well-being of its residents and staff.

Elder Kearon was joined by his wife, Jennifer; Elder Chi Hong (Sam) Wong of the Philippines Area Presidency, and his wife, Carol; President Nomar Nivera and his wife, Ena, of the Las Piñas Philippines Stake (diocese); and Brother Abenir Pajaro, Area Manager for the Church’s Welfare and Self-Reliance Department, and his wife, Valerie.

The Church responded directly to a specific wish list submitted by the center, donating 16 wall fans, diapers, powdered milk, a desktop computer, 27 customized wheelchairs, eight specialized wheelchairs for individuals with cerebral palsy, and hygiene kits.

“The Church was swift to grant our wishlist,” said Farrah Angeles-Cabrera, a Social Welfare Officer and Center Head of Elsie Gaches Village. “We are grateful for this immediate and generous support.”

“We are grateful for the work that you do in taking care of those people who need help. This is the Lord’s work,” said Elder Kearon, acknowledging the dedicated care provided to the residents of Elsie Gaches Village.

As a token of appreciation, two paintings created by residents Christine Materiano and Jonathan Callon were presented to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Other key staff from Elsie Gaches Village in attendance included Dr. Neil Jan de Leon, Medical Officer III; Ms. Cielo Agotilla, SWO III; Maria Theresa Miclat, Manpower Development Officer II; and Cleo Marie Pinos, Admin Officer IV and Head of Psychological Services.

Elsie Gaches Village, located in Alabang, Muntinlupa City, was established in 1964 through the donation of a 16-hectare rest house by American philanthropists Samuel and Elsie Gaches. Today, under the management of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the Village provides holistic care to individuals with intellectual and neuro-developmental disabilities who are abandoned or neglected, offering social, medical, educational, and developmental support.

The event was part of Elder Kearon’s 10-day ministering visit to the Philippines, where he met with members of the Church, local leaders, government officials, and interfaith organizations. The Church’s humanitarian efforts, including support for institutions like Elsie Gaches Village, continue to reflect its commitment to serving communities in need, regardless of religion or background.