Our employees' charity fund's theme for this Christmas is giving to the abandoned elderly. We went to Anawim Lay Missions Foundation (www.anawim.com.ph) in Montalban, Rizal. Anawim is currently home to about 55 elders, some abandoned children, and some physically and mentally handicapped persons.
The moment I stepped out of the car, I felt the difference. The place was peaceful and beautiful at the same time. The center occupies a portion of the hills, and so the "homes" were perched on the hillside. There was a central gathering place which they used for programs and maybe some meals. We started the gift-giving activity with the residents who were able to join us in the gathering place. I was especially touched when several of the elders were crying when they received their gifts. I can't imagine the loneliness they must feel. And when they each thanked us by saying that "you will be blessed by the Lord", I couldn't help but be humbled. We gave very simple gifts, and it meant so much to them.
We were also able to visit those who were sick in their "homes", which were mostly made of nipa. Each cottage houses about three residents, and they have their own private rooms. Each cottage also has its own toilet. The quarters were simple, yet the elders were well provided for. I admired the way the homes were designed, it is as if they wanted to let the elders feel that they had their own home.
The Chapel was beautiful. It was at the highest level of the center overlooking the "homes". I couldn't help but spend a few moments there in prayer.
We also met the Center "mother" Ms. Neneng Mangahas (who is 76 years old herself) and the volunteers who run the center. They are amazing people, and they truly make the world a better place to live in.
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3 comments:
That's really sweet. Such a privilege to be able to give to the less fortunate.
-- D
Kakaiyak 'no? It was very thoughtful of your foundation to actually visit your beneficiaries. It sure made a lot of difference for the,
I agree, Montalban is a nice place. We also visited a home for abandoned handicapped children located in Montalban last August. Really peaceful and quiet place. It's called Cotolengo run by missionaries.
pz
I will never forget the experience. I'm just so go glad I have all these opportunities to do something.
PZ, we will also look into Cotolengo, maybe we can also visit and provide for some of their needs.
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