At a special ceremony at the Governor’s Complex on November 22, 2024, Guam’s Governor Leon Guerrero thanked representatives from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for a donation of wheelchairs, walkers, shower chairs and rails, and hospital beds.
The healthcare equipment had previously been made to the Department of Integrated Services for Individuals with Disabilities (DISID), which is tasked with making sure the items make it into the homes and facilities where they are needed.
Also in attendance at the ceremony were representatives of other government entities whose efforts to serve the communities of Guam will be enhanced by the donation.
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Notably, members of the Guam Fire Department were present. In addition to their many duties in responding to fire and other emergencies, fire stations “serve as emergency centers for our villages,” explained Governor Guererro.
Michelle Perez, Director of DISID spoke first at the ceremony. “The most gratifying part of the process of providing this equipment is seeing the grateful expressions of those who have been on waiting lists when they arrive and pick up their wheelchairs, walkers, and other donated items!” she said.
Governor Guerrero then spoke and thanked the Church for its donations, past and present.
“Your church is very much aligned with our values as island people and Christians, and our values of honesty, trust, integrity and respect,” stated the Governor. Your donation is a great testament of your connection to our people, not just on Guam, but throughout the whole of Micronesia.”
The governor went on to express her pride in Guam as an island of very blessed people who live together peacefully and lovingly. “That to me is our uniqueness and our strength,” she said. “You don’t know how much this donation has gone a long, long way to make our lives so much better. I thank you on behalf of the people of Guam.”
Download PhotoBrett Child, Director of humanitarian efforts in the Guam/Micronesia area concluded the ceremony by thanking the governor and all present for the privilege of working together to serve Guam.
“We love being part of this community,” he said. “We are here because of our love for our Savior Jesus Christ,” he said. “As a community of fellow Christians, we are grateful to be with you. These donations are all a result of the charitable donations of members of our church. It’s our way of giving back.”
